President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the National Security Strategy (NSS) 2024, a comprehensive guide designed to shape a safer, secure, more prosperous, and united country, the National Security Council (NSC) reported on Sunday.
According to NSC Spokesperson Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya, this vital plan for the nation’s future was presented to and approved by the President during a meeting with key officials in Malacañang.
The meeting included Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año.
The NSS implements the administration’s National Security Policy 2023-2028, which was adopted under Executive Order No 37, according to NSC.
NSA Año said the NSS lays out 53 strategic directions and 393 actionable steps that will secure the nation’s sovereignty, promote the welfare of every citizen, and strengthen the bonds of peace, harmony and solidarity.
“At its core, the NSS is about building a country where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and communities can feel safe and supported,” he added.
“The 2024 NSS focuses on four key areas: human capital development, institution-building, efficient use of instruments of national power such as diplomacy and defense, and sustainable growth through economic resilience and legislative support,” said Año.
President Marcos, for his part, emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach in crafting the NSS, highlighting how it reflects the shared vision and efforts of various sectors.
He expressed optimism that the document would guide the country in addressing complex challenges while ensuring that all Filipinos benefit from the progress it brings.
By encouraging active participation from all stakeholders, the President underscored the need for a united effort to achieve the nation’s goals.
Año highlighted the importance of the NSS in addressing both local and global challenges. He explained that the strategy ensures the country’s readiness to tackle evolving threats, from territorial disputes to economic pressures, while emphasizing the welfare of every Filipino.
“This is not just about protecting borders; it’s about safeguarding the dreams and aspirations of every Filipino family. The NSS gives us a clear path to build a nation that is resilient, united, and self-reliant,” Año said.
One of the key strengths of the NSS is its focus on collaboration. The strategy is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) and emphasizes a whole-of-nation approach, ensuring that all sectors—from government agencies to private organizations and local communities—play an active role in achieving national security.
“As the NSS and NSP 2023-2028 are implemented, the Philippines moves closer to achieving its goals of a secure and prosperous society. These goals include ensuring the survival of its people, sustaining economic growth, promoting peace and harmony, strengthening national unity, and positioning the country as a respected and influential player in the global community,” Malaya added.
Año also called on all Filipinos to embrace their role in this collective journey, saying, “Every step we take together brings us closer to a future where our children can live in a nation they are proud to call their own.”
“The National Security Strategy represents a call to action for the entire nation. By working together, the Philippines can overcome challenges, safeguard its sovereignty, and create a brighter future for all,” he added.
