Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. called for stronger cooperation between Europe and Asia to protect the rules-based international order as global threats continue to evolve.
Speaking at the Paris Defence and Strategy Forum 2026 last March 25, Teodoro stressed that countries must work together instead of acting separately.
“As it was then, so it remains: the threats—and the threat actors—that we face are increasingly intertwined,” he stated. He added that “as our adversaries align, we should not fragment.”
He urged the need for what he called “convergence,” or the unity between regions. This includes closer ties between Europe, the United States, and Asia to respond to shared challenges.
Impact of Global Tensions
Teodoro said global conflicts may not directly involve the Philippines, but their effects are still felt. He pointed to risks faced by Filipinos working abroad, especially in the Middle East, as well as rising oil prices.
“Like any other country, we have felt the consequences,” he said, citing threats to the safety of around 2.4 million Filipinos overseas and increases in commodity prices.
Upholding International Law
He also highlighted the importance of international law in protecting smaller nations like the Philippines. He reaffirmed the country’s reliance on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award.
According to Teodoro, these legal frameworks are “indispensable” in defending the country’s sovereign and territorial integrity.
He further criticized China for continuing to ignore the 2016 ruling and for spreading misinformation.
“Even in domestic issues and politics, China continues to wage a campaign in order to undermine our determination to pursue our rightful claims under international law,” he stated.
The Philippines Remains Firm
Teodoro assured that the country will remain firm despite these challenges.
“Yet, my presence here signals the commitment of the Marcos administration not to waver, but to stay the course for our own people and especially for future generations,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to France and other European partners for supporting international law, emphasizing that stronger cooperation is key to maintaining peace and stability.
