October 2, 2024 (Pasay City) – Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. underscored the urgent need to bolster the Philippines’ defense capabilities, particularly in the maritime sector, on the third day of the Blue Economy Annual Trade and Conference (BEACON) Expo 2024 at the SMX Convention Center.

In his keynote address, Secretary Teodoro emphasized the transformation of the Philippine Navy into a “true Blue Water Navy,” capable of safeguarding Filipino seafarers and enforcing international maritime laws. Secretary Teodoro called for fair economic practices and the elimination of substandard goods that harm local industries, stressing the importance of attracting foreign direct investments to strengthen the country’s defense initiatives.

“We are gearing up their skill sets. We are gearing up their horizons in order to be a true Blue Water Navy, not for the purpose of waging offensive operations against any person, but for the sole purpose of protecting two things—enforcing international norms on the high seas, and protecting Filipino citizens and assets under the flag of the Philippines on the sea lanes wherever they may be found,” Secretary Teodoro stated.

Sharing the Department of National Defense’s broader security strategy, the Defense Chief emphasized the need to safeguard supply chains and infrastructure in light of rising geopolitical tensions. He further urged a strategic focus on building resilient infrastructure and minimizing the impact of climate change on vulnerable regions.

Secretary Teodoro concluded by challenging key maritime organizations to establish timelines for raising maritime and archipelagic awareness. He proposed that this awareness should extend to schools, teaching essential concepts about the country’s entitlements, environmental protection, and the importance of open and free markets to ensure resilient supply chains.

“The political will from our leaders to do what is necessary is there. But we have to make the public feel that they will benefit in order to add to the collective political will of everyone to make the needed investments in time, in resources, and sometimes in pain, in order to gain a strategic advantage or momentum, at least, in building our new economy,” he added.

The BEACON Expo 2024, organized by the Maritime League in partnership with the DND and other government agencies, brought together key industry players, government officials, and experts. Held from September 30 to October 2, the event showcased advancements in maritime industries crucial to the nation’s economic and defense interests, and aims to enhance the country’s maritime capabilities through innovations and partnerships.

Among those present were Vice Admiral Eduardo Maria R. Santos, AFP (Ret.), Chairman and President of The Maritime League; Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr., Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy; and Vice Admiral Rolando Punzalan, Jr., Deputy Commandant for Operations of the Philippine Coast Guard, along with representatives from the shipbuilding, renewable energy, oil and gas, marine tourism, and maritime environmental sectors.