President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. departed for New York City on Sunday, March 8, for a working visit where he is expected to call for peace in the Middle East and the protection of civilians amid escalating conflict in the region.
From March 9 to 10, Marcos will attend engagements at the United Nations, including a special session of the General Assembly and the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women.
Foreign Affairs spokesperson Angelica Escalona said the visit will allow the President to present the Philippines’ position urging restraint and adherence to international law.
“Ang UN ang pinakaangkop na lugar upang manawagan ng ating Pangulo para sa kapayapaan sa Middle East at sa kaligtasan ng lahat ng mga sibilyan, lalo na ng ating mga kababayan,” she said.
Escalona added that Marcos will represent the perspective of developing nations in urging parties to respect international law and return to negotiations.
The President is also set to address the General Assembly to seek support for the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council for 2027–2028.
“Bakit nga ba mahalaga na magkaroon tayo ng seat sa UN Security Council? … nagbibigay ito sa Pilipinas ng kapangyarihan at boses sa mga usaping global safety at security,” Escalona explained.
During the visit, Marcos will meet UN Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss Middle East developments and reaffirm the Philippines’ commitment to multilateral cooperation.
He will also deliver remarks at the Commission on the Status of Women, highlighting the country’s commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of women and girls.
Marcos is accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Cabinet officials including Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Carlito Galvez Jr., and Communications Acting Secretary Dave Gomez.