As global trade in goods and services and international investment become important drivers of the country's economic growth, government shall continue to be vigilant in responding to crimes that thrive under an environment of increasingly open borders, such as terrorism, human trafficking, arms and drug-trafficking, and smuggling.
The archipelagic nature of the country makes it both urgent and challenging for the government to uphold its territorial integrity. Greater efforts shall be exerted to safeguard the country's interests within maritime areas, notably its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), through heightened maritime security capabilities.
The administration will have to pick up the pieces and resume the quest for peace with vigor and clarity of purpose. Our quest must not only focus on ensuring stability of the State and the security of our nation. Our ultimate goal must be the safety and wellbeing of our people. "We must revive the peace process on the basis of a comprehensive understanding of the root causes of the conflict, under clear policies that pave and clear the way ahead, and driven by a genuine desire to attain a just and lasting peace. We shall endeavor to restore confidence in the peace process that is transparent and participatory, and renew our faith in our shared vision of a peaceful, secure and prosperous future under one sovereign flag." -President Benigno S. Aquino, April 22, 2010 Mandarin Hotel, Makati |
In addition to territorial threats, the overseas diaspora of Filipinos entails a wider redefinition and understanding of threats to Filipino interests. In particular, the predicament of overseas Filipinos who come into conflict with the laws of other countries poses complex new challenges to the country's conduct of foreign relations, with potential repercussions on issues of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
A comprehensive response to these concerns involves initiatives to improve relations and forge cooperation with other nations to preserve and protect national security and interest, including the welfare of Filipinos living and working abroad.