Pasay City: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s emphasis on promoting dialogue and a rules-based order in the region positions him as the country’s ‘best ambassador’ abroad, a lawmaker stated.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pangasinan Representative Rachel Arenas, who chairs the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs, expressed her views at a Foreign Service Institute (FSI) Philippines lecture. She highlighted that President Marcos, by representing the Philippines on the global stage, advocates for global peace, order, and security. Arenas emphasized the importance of following through with this approach, considering Marcos as the architect of the nation’s foreign policy, and urged others to do the same.

Marcos has consistently underscored the significance of maintaining a ‘rules-based international order’ in his local and overseas engagements, viewing it as crucial for achieving development. In response to increasing tensions in the West Philippine Sea due to Chinese actions, he reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.

Arenas also mentioned Congress’s intention to continue collaborating with the executive branch to advance national interests. She noted that her committee has submitted recommendations for the 20th Congress to maintain this cooperation, particularly with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) concerning the West Philippine Sea.

The recommendations encompass collaborative policy development, joint consultations, and enhanced legislative oversight. Arenas further advocated for the development of a long-term Philippine ‘diplomatic and security strategy’ that is cohesive and inclusive in the region.

The lecture was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, officials from the DFA and FSI, and representatives from the government and academia.