President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. kicked off a working visit to New York this week, rallying support for the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council while pushing Manila’s broader diplomatic and economic priorities.
The Philippines is seeking a seat for the 2027–2028 term, a move Marcos said would help elevate the perspectives of developing nations in global security deliberations.
“This candidature is about shared responsibility,” Marcos said. “It is about ensuring that the voice of the Philippines—and of developing countries—is heard at the highest forum of global peace and security.”
The diplomatic push forms the centerpiece of Marcos’ engagements at the United Nations, where he is also set to address the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. His remarks are expected to highlight Philippine initiatives on gender equality, women’s leadership, and inclusive development.
Marcos emphasized the country’s longstanding advocacy for women’s rights, noting that the Philippines was among the early states to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
On the sidelines, President Marcos is scheduled to meet UN Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss global security challenges and Manila’s role in multilateral cooperation.
Talks are also expected to touch on peaceful dispute resolution and adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea—issues central to the Philippines’ regional diplomacy.
The New York trip also carries a strong economic dimension. Marcos will meet business leaders and investors to promote the Philippines as a destination for trade and investment, part of the administration’s effort to deepen international economic partnerships.
Officials say securing a Security Council seat could strengthen Manila’s diplomatic influence while opening doors for expanded cooperation in development, trade, and regional security.
