The Philippine National Police has pledged continued support for lawful and peaceful initiatives promoting the Philippines’ sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea while maintaining public safety and order.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. made the commitment after police personnel joined the 2026 National Peace Walk at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Sunday, July 12.
The event commemorated the 10th anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling, which upheld the Philippines’ maritime entitlements under international law.
Organized by the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, the gathering carried the theme, “Walking in Unity, Celebrating a Decade of Victory.”
Representatives from government agencies, uniformed services and various sectors attended the event to express support for the country’s sovereignty and national interests in the West Philippine Sea.
“While our primary duty remains maintaining peace and order, we also stand with the Filipino people in upholding our national interest through lawful and peaceful means,” Nartatez said.
The police chief said the PNP’s participation was in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive, relayed through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen national unity and support peaceful activities advancing the country’s sovereign rights.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. recognized the participation of police personnel during his speech at the event.
“Let us thank our police because while they continue protecting our communities, they are also standing with us in the fight for the West Philippine Sea,” Teodoro said.
He also thanked the National Capital Region Police Office, the PNP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government for supporting the gathering.
Nartatez said Teodoro’s acknowledgment reflected the police organization’s commitment to the government’s broader West Philippine Sea efforts.
“Our participation sends a clear message that the PNP stands with every Filipino in supporting our country’s sovereignty and national interest,” he said.
“We remain committed to protecting the people, preserving peace and order, and supporting lawful initiatives that strengthen unity and love of country.”