SINGAPORE, 1 JUNE 2025 — Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. on Sunday morning emphasized the importance of principled leadership, international cooperation, and values-based decision-making in addressing global security challenges. He made the remarks before young professionals and strategic thinkers at the Young Leaders Ministerial Roundtable of the Shangri-La Dialogue earlier today. 

Secretary Teodoro referenced UNESCO’s definition of global citizenship—the idea that all people are connected not only to their nations but to a broader global community. He urged the participants to adopt this perspective, which views the world not merely as a battleground for influence and control, but as a shared home shaped by interdependence, anchored in norms, ethics, and international law.

“This perspective allows us to go beyond power politics,” Teodoro said. “It enables us to see the world through the lens of common humanity. Our shared challenges demand fair and cooperative solutions grounded in justice and the rule of law.”

Secretary Teodoro, however,  cautioned that this cooperative global vision is under threat from unilateral efforts to reshape the international order—through the spread of disinformation, manipulate multilateral platforms, and attempts to redefine international law.

He likewise reiterated the need for foreign and defense policies to remain grounded in the realities of people’s lives. Using the West Philippine Sea as an example, he highlighted the harassment of fisherfolk, noting that these are not abstract policy issues but real human concerns that demand strategic empathy and moral clarity.

Secretary Teodoro also underscored the value of strong partnerships, noting that for the Philippines, strategic relationships are vital to national security and regional stability. He cited the enhancement of bilateral ties, and the country’s active participation in multilateral efforts, including the U.S.-Japan-Philippines trilateral partnership and the SQUAD, which includes Australia.

Teodoro also stressed the importance of education in developing informed and responsible leadership in a world increasingly shaped by misinformation. He urged young leaders to bridge the gap between those with access to knowledge and those without, and to communicate the value of education in ways that resonate with broader society. /END

Reposted from The Official Website of the Department of National Defense.