Marcos: Proposed ASEAN Maritime Center not aimed at confronting any country

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday said that the proposed establishment of the ASEAN Maritime Center in the Philippines seeks not to push back against any particular country.

Marcos said this in a press conference following the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings.

“What is the ultimate reason for having this maritime center is not to confront or not to somehow push back on any single force or country,” Marcos said.

“It has to be seen from this perspective—what we are working for is the continued freedom of navigation and the peaceful navigation in South China Sea,” he added.

Marcos earlier Friday expressed optimism regarding the adoption of a declaration on maritime cooperation among ASEAN leaders.

He said the cooperation includes the Philippines’ proposal to establish the ASEAN Maritime Center, which will serve “as an important platform for maritime cooperation in coordination with relevant ASEAN and ASEAN-led mechanisms.” —LDF, GMA News