Marcos Jr. pitches Philippines bid for UN council seat

NEW YORK – President Marcos called for an end to conflicts around the world as he sought global support for the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council.

In a nearly 23-minute address at a special plenary meeting of the UN General Assembly, Marcos urged “urgent and much needed action for peace” in several conflict areas, including the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Sahel, Yemen and Myanmar.

“Their people continue to live in fear and in despair,” Marcos said. “These tragedies need to stop. Innocents must be protected, and their basic needs immediately provided.”

“For the wider region, the Philippines joins the international community in calling for restraint, de-escalation and the cessation of hostilities,” Marcos added.

He also urged all parties involved in conflicts, as well as the international community, to address the catastrophic humanitarian situations arising from the violence.

“The safe, free and unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid to people in need is not negotiable,” the President said. “This holds true for the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan, the DRC, the Sahel, Yemen, Myanmar — everywhere else where humanitarian action is needed.”

Security council bid

In the same address, Marcos also appealed to UN member states to support the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for 2027 to 2028.

“In the midst of mounting challenges and uncertainties, our United Nations need steady, committed, experienced hands; and we humbly offer ours — to serve in the UN Security Council for 2027 to 2028,” the President said.

Marcos said the country stands ready to contribute to global efforts to ease divisions and promote balanced dialogue while advocating principled peace.

The President further underscored the Philippines’ role as an independent and trusted partner, an innovative pathfinder and a committed peacemaker. – Michael Punongbayan