Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on Filipinos to unite in defending the country's maritime rights and protecting its waters as the Philippines observes Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo) 2026. In his message for the month-long observance, Marcos emphasized the Philippines' identity as a maritime and archipelagic nation, highlighting the shared responsibility to uphold legal rights and protect maritime patrimony.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos stated, "Defending what is ours demands our solidarity as a people and firm national resolve." This year's MANA Mo coincides with the anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, which he described as an opportunity to "uphold, affirm, and reiterate" the Philippines' lawful rights and entitlements. The landmark ruling declared China's expansive "nine-dash line" claims in the South China Sea to have no legal basis under international law, affirming the Philippines' sovereign rights within its exclusive economic zone. Despite this, China has rejected the decision.
Marcos urged public participation in various activities throughout September, organized by government agencies, Philippine embassies and consulates, local government units, schools, and the private sector. These initiatives aim to deepen public understanding of the importance of the country's seas to its history, security, and future. He also called for greater awareness to translate into concrete measures that advance Philippine maritime rights and promote responsible stewardship of the country's marine resources.
The President assured that his administration, through the National Maritime Council, will continue to address maritime concerns with sustained attention and direction. "Rest assured that we will remain resolute in protecting our waters and safeguarding the future of our Bagong Pilipinas," he said.
MANA Mo is observed every September to promote public awareness of the Philippines' maritime heritage and its identity, interests, and responsibilities as an archipelagic nation. The Philippine Army noted that the observance highlights the country's rich maritime heritage and the vital role of the seas and aquatic resources in sustaining the nation.
"The celebration also underscores the importance of fostering greater public awareness and appreciation of the country's maritime identity, while promoting responsible stewardship of its marine environment," the Army stated, reaffirming its commitment to "contributing to a secure, resilient, and environmentally responsible Philippines."
