President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday urged Filipinos to unite in upholding the Philippines’ maritime rights as the country observes Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo) 2026 this September.
In his message, the President stressed that the nation’s identity as a maritime and archipelagic nation is a shared responsibility of all Filipinos, especially in protecting its lawful rights.
“Defending what is ours demands our solidarity as a people and firm national resolve,” he said.
This year’s MANA Mo coincides with the 10th anniversary of the 2016 landmark ruling on the South China Sea issue.
The arbitral award junked China’s expansive “nine-dash line” claims in the South China Sea and affirmed the Philippines’ sovereign rights within its exclusive economic zone.
“I thus urge every Filipino to take part in activities organized throughout September by government agencies, embassies and consulates, local government units, educational institutions, and the private sector. These initiatives are aimed at deepening public understanding of the vital role our seas play in our history, security, and future,” the President said.
He urged Filipinos to “carry this awareness forward by advancing concrete measures that champion our rights as a nation and strengthen the responsible stewardship of our patrimony.”
He said the government, through the National Maritime Council, “will continue to provide clear direction and sustained attention to this core national concern.”
“To every Filipino, rest assured that we remain resolute in protecting our waters and safeguarding the future of our Bagong Pilipinas,” the President added.
MANA Mo is celebrated every September to promote public awareness of the country’s maritime heritage.