The Philippine Navy is ramping up efforts to establish a “holistic defense posture” to protect the country’s maritime territories and extensive coastline, Navy Chief Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta said Tuesday.
“We have been progressively undertaking actions to attain a holistic defense posture that secures the whole Philippine archipelago and our exclusive economic zone. This is anchored in a comprehensive archipelago defense concept,” he said during the Navy’s anniversary celebration in Subic, Zambales.
Ezpeleta emphasized the growing importance of maritime security in shaping the nation’s future, saying the Philippines’ prosperity is deeply connected to the protection of its seas.
“That is why our Navy plays an important role, not just in defending national sovereignty and assuring territorial integrity, but in contributing to lasting peace and preserving marine resources that future generations of young Filipinos can inherit,” he said.
Ezpeleta said this year’s anniversary theme — “Philippine Navy: Addressing Challenges, Promoting Regional Stability, and Strengthening Maritime Security” — reflects the Navy’s commitment to meeting rising expectations in a volatile security environment.
He also pointed to recent modernization efforts, stronger international defense ties, and personnel development as key drivers of the Navy’s transformation.
“We demonstrate this commitment by modernizing and enhancing our deterrent capabilities, deepening our defense ties with key partners and like-minded nations, developing individuals with appropriate technical competencies, and strengthening collaboration with major services. This also brings us closer to our vision of becoming a modern and multi-capable Navy,” Ezpeleta added.