The Philippine government on Sunday publicly called for the United Nations (UN) to give it a seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting the country’s strong record and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo in a speech delivered at the UN General Assembly in New York said the Philippines continues to emphasize the “importance of upholding the rule of law and the integrity of the multilateral system in the face of today’s global challenges.”
Quoted by reports, Manalo also said: “The Philippines has consistently pursued peace, the sovereign equality of states, the rights and dignity of all persons.”
He added that the country is also recognized as the “first Asian Republic and a founding member of the United Nations.”
“The Philippines is a trusted partner, innovative pathfinder and committed peacemaker. We bring experience, depth and steadfastness in working with the international community to address common global challenges,” he said.
“We thus count on your support for our bid for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for the term 2027 to 2028.”
Manalo further said the Philippines “stands alongside the pathfinders and bridge-builders of nations” noting the government’s efforts with the successful transition of rebel fighters in Mindanao back to society.
The official also mentioned the “willingness of the country to host key international efforts, including the Board of the Loss and Damage fund for climate change.”
“We offer constructive solutions across the spectrum of the work of the United Nations – from human rights, health and humanitarian action to development, disarmament and disaster and climate risk reduction, from peacemaking to peacekeeping to peace building,” he said.
“President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed that multilateralism remains the single viable platform for collective action against transcendent global challenges,” he said.
Manalo made no mention of other countries, but his speech at the UNGA was delivered at the backdrop of China’s continued aggression in the West Philippine Sea, waters within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
