Manila, Sept. 5 -- Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday reiterated the agency's commitment to protecting Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

"As we observe this year's MANA Mo, the DND stands with our people in protecting our patrimony. In the face of attempts to undermine our sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in the WPS, we remain resolute in our stand against coercion and manipulation," he said in his message for the observance of the "Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month" (MANA Mo) 2025 this September.

With the Philippines having rich maritime territories, Teodoro said all Filipinos must unite and defend these to preserve the country's archipela...