The Philippines reaffirmed its dedication to peace, sustainable development, and a rules-based international order during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) General Debate in New York. Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro delivered the country’s national statement, invoking the legacy of former diplomat General Carlos P. Romulo, who praised the UN Charter as a milestone for humanity in 1945.
“Our faith in the UN Charter endures, as the international community celebrates the 80th anniversary of the United Nations,” Lazaro said.
She called for urgent resolution of ongoing conflicts, urging an end to violence in Gaza through lasting ceasefires, restored humanitarian access, and renewed efforts toward a two-state solution. Lazaro also emphasized respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty amid its conflict and highlighted humanitarian crises in Sudan, Syria, Afghanistan, and other regions.
The Philippines is seeking a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027–2028 to contribute to global peace and security, drawing from its peacebuilding experience in Mindanao. “Beyond stopping hostilities, peace is a just order, with individuals flourishing in dignity at its center,” she said, citing the success of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Lazaro stressed the need for reforms in global financing systems that perpetuate debt and inequality, especially for climate-vulnerable countries, and urged developed nations and multilateral banks to fulfill climate finance commitments.
She announced the Philippines’ ratification of the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), reinforcing adherence to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Highlighting the contributions of Filipino migrants, including 1.9 million seafarers supporting global maritime trade, Lazaro called for stronger protection of migrant rights.
On technology, she acknowledged artificial intelligence’s potential but warned of its risks, urging safeguards against misuse.
The Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to human rights, climate diplomacy, pandemic response, and peacekeeping, recalling its long history of UN mission engagement.
Addressing maritime disputes, Lazaro reiterated commitment to UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea, condemning “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous actions” in Philippine waters while emphasizing diplomacy and peaceful dispute resolution.
Concluding, Lazaro echoed Romulo’s 1945 words, affirming the Philippines’ shared destiny with the international community.