Photo credit: PCO

In an interview during the Government-Owned or -Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) Day in Pasay City, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines' stance against deploying water cannons on its vessels, despite provocations from the China Coast Guard (CCG) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

President Marcos emphasized that the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard will maintain their mission to de-escalate tensions in the region, contrasting with the aggressive tactics employed by the CCG.

When questioned about proposals to arm Philippine vessels with water cannons, President Marcos reiterated the country's commitment to defending its sovereignty through diplomatic channels rather than offensive measures.

He highlighted the use of démarche, a diplomatic gesture, to convey the Philippines' position to China and other stakeholders in response to recent incidents, including the use of water cannons by the CCG against Philippine vessels.