'A Friend to All; an Enemy to None'

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s focus on relationship-building in foreign policy

- BY CECILE J.BALTASAR

As President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. guides his administration toward hosting the ASEAN Summit in 2026, he urges all Filipinos to adhere to the government's foreign policy rooted in fellowship: "The Philippines is a friend to all; the Philippines is an enemy to none," Marcos stated at his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA).

This approach, aligning with that of ASEAN neighbors, reflects Marcos’ strategy for navigating the West Philippine Sea. After years of ambiguity under the previous administration, the Philippines is adopting a patient stance, firmly relying on the rule of international law to establish its maritime territory.

By emphasizing neutrality, Marcos aims to maintain civil, even friendly, relations to avoid violent conflicts. He stresses that this approach prioritizes the Philippines’ national interests.

Since his term began in 2022, Marcos has been strengthening government-to-government ties to advance the Philippines on the global stage. These efforts, including the president’s foreign trips, have yielded significant results.