Philippine President Addresses Regional Security Challenges at DKI APCSS

The Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies held the sixth iteration of its DKI Speaker Series on November 19, featuring His Excellency Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines. 

The Philippine President’s discussion resonated with the series’ goal of fostering discussions on regional stability and security. He spoke to an auditorium of over 200 participants focusing on regional security challenges, the Philippines’ security situation, and the Philippine-U.S. alliance. 

President Marcos Jr. presented a donation to Hawaii to aid in the Maui fire recovery effort. Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke accepted the gift. She was joined by Rep. Ed Case, Rep. Jill Tokuda, Donovan M. Dela Cruz, and Sen. Henry Aquino.

Said Marcos, “My message has always been simple and clear: the Philippines will continue to be an engaged and responsible neighbor and partner, always finding ways to collaborate with the end goal of mutually beneficial outcomes, namely, peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.” 

The President began his address by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to speak at the DKI APCSS, noting the personal connection between Senator Inouye and his father. He shared a poignant moment regarding Senator Inouye’s involvement in arranging recognition for Filipino World War II veterans, showcasing the deep and longstanding ties between the two nations. 

The President’s address highlighted the historical ties between the Philippines and the United States, emphasized the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region, and outlined the country’s commitment to collaboration for peace and prosperity. 

This event was the sixth iteration of the series. It was co-sponsored by the DKI Institute and the Foundation for the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. The series contributes to Senator Inouye’s vision of Hawaii’s role in ensuring a secure, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. Senior officials and thought leaders can discuss their perspectives with community leaders, current and future, who represent Hawaii’s longstanding support of regional security and stability. Previous speakers include then Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Affairs Randall Schriver, former Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Adm. Pete Davidson, and former U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Harry Harris.