The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday expressed full support for the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to assign Filipino names to 131 maritime features within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In a statement, AFP Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad described the move as a legitimate exercise of the Philippines’ administrative and sovereign rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The official also said that the initiative goes beyond simple naming, emphasizing that it reinforces the country’s legal and historical presence in its maritime domain.
“By giving these features names that resonate with our national identity and heritage, we are not only reclaiming our maritime history but also solidifying our clear and legal footprint in these waters,” Trinidad said.
The military also stressed that the initiative is a non-provocative and symbolic step, aimed at ensuring that future generations inherit a well-defined maritime territory.
The AFP reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty while supporting civilian agencies in the peaceful assertion of maritime rights.
He also called on the international community to respect the move, noting that it is consistent with established maritime norms and legal frameworks.
“Para sa Malayang Karagatan at Matatag na Republika (For the freedom of navigation and a strong republic),” Trinidad said.
