Senator Imee Marcos urged the Philippines to reduce its dependence on the United States, citing uncertainties in international relations. Her statement comes as Donald Trump is set to return as US President.
Marcos emphasized the need for self-reliance, particularly in defense. “Magsimula na tayong magpakatibay at self-reliant dahil mahirap asahan yang mga EDCA agreements,” she said, referencing the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement between the Philippines and the US.
In an interview with Brigada News FM Manila, the senator warned against excessive reliance on the US and highlighted the importance of self-sufficiency.
She advocated reviving the Philippines’ defense manufacturing system, initiated by her late father, Former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
The senator said the Philippines once produced M-16 rifles, machine guns, mini patrol boats, mini-cruisers, and missiles, but wondered why the productions stopped.
Marcos cited Taiwan as an example, where the US charged for its assistance.
She stressed that the Philippines should develop its defense capabilities, including producing local arms and equipment.
The senator, however, expressed optimism about Trump’s foreign policy, hoping it would promote peace and lower oil and flour prices.
The Senate passed the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act to strengthen the country’s defense industry, which Marcos wants to implement fully.
Abner is an award-winning journalist. He received the prestigious 2015 Titus Brandsma Award for Community Communication in the Philippines and participated in the 2016 International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) of the United States of America, sponsored by the US Embassy in the Philippines. Founder of WATCH NORTH COTABATO, a media-citizens’ transparency group. He worked as a correspondent for the Philippine Daily Inquirer and CNN Philippines. His experience in broadcasting includes anchoring for Brigada News FM in Kidapawan and General Santos City and Brigada News TV. He anchors Tira Brigada via 105.1 Brigada News FM Manila, Mondays-Saturdays.