New york: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. described his two-day working visit to the United States as 'very productive,' emphasizing efforts to promote peace amid global tensions and rallying support for the Philippines' bid for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
According to Philippines News Agency, after concluding his engagements at the United Nations, Marcos stated that the visit focused on advocating for peace in the Middle East and other conflict-affected regions, while also promoting the Philippines' bid for a seat on the UNSC for the 2027-2028 term. On the first day, he delivered a national statement at the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, highlighting that a nation's progress is measured by the status and empowerment of women.
Marcos emphasized the importance of education and unity to confront violence against women in all forms. He stressed ensuring women's presence wherever decisions are made, within government, business, science, diplomacy, and peace-building. Additionally, he met with UN Secretary General Ant³nio Guterres to reaffirm the Philippines' commitment to multilateralism and continued cooperation with the global body.
During a special plenary session of the United Nations General Assembly, Marcos addressed the 193 member-states, stressing the importance of the rule of law, multilateralism, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. He sought support for the Philippines' UNSC bid, emphasizing that the country would bring the voice of the Indo-Pacific, developing countries, climate-vulnerable nations, and middle-income countries to the Council while advancing South-South cooperation.
Marcos hosted a diplomatic reception attended by high-level representatives from member states of the United Nations to further rally support for the Philippines' bid. He noted that the Philippines has been part of efforts to address global challenges since the founding of the United Nations in 1945 and remains 'a trusted and independent partner, pathfinder, and peacemaker.'
On the sidelines of the visit, Marcos engaged with business leaders and investors, including executives from the US Medical Glove Company, exploring plans to establish a manufacturing facility in the Philippines. The project could potentially create more than 2,000 Filipino jobs and allow for local production of essential medical supplies, opening new opportunities for Filipino workers in the global medical manufacturing industry.
Marcos also held discussions with senior leaders of JP Morgan on economic cooperation and global financial developments, including the impact of global tensions on oil prices and international markets. The talks touched on rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and the need for governments and institutions to prepare for its effects on industries, economies, and labor markets.
The discussions underscored the importance of technological readiness, cybersecurity resilience, and workforce upskilling to remain competitive in a fast-changing global environment. Marcos reiterated that the Philippines would continue strengthening bilateral ties with partners worldwide while promoting regional solidarity through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
The presidential plane carrying Marcos departed from Newark Liberty International Airport, concluding the productive visit.
