New York City: The Philippine government has renewed its call for the ‘total elimination’ of nuclear weapons, urging all states to set aside ‘narrow interests’ and support global disarmament, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Wednesday. The call was made during the general debate of the 3rd Session of the Preparatory Committee for the 2026 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) on April 28 in New York City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DFA stated that Manila is committed to the goals of the NPT in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons while promoting cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. The Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to these objectives, emphasizing the treaty’s role as the cornerstone of the global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation architecture.
DFA Undersecretary Charles Jose delivered the Philippine statement at the general debate, stressing the urgency of a ‘time-bound, phased, and verifiable program for the total elimination of nuclear weapons, and the provision of legally binding security assurances to Non-Nuclear-Weapon States.’ He highlighted the importance of rallying behind the NPT, especially during times of geopolitical instability, to preserve, strengthen, and implement the treaty meaningfully.
Speaking on behalf of the Non-Proliferation Disarmament Initiative (NPDI), the official also expressed concern over the reported increase in nuclear warheads worldwide, warning that the world is heading in the wrong direction. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently reaffirmed the Philippines’ opposition to the proliferation of nuclear weapons, aligning national policy with international commitments.
The DFA emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation, dialogue, and legally binding instruments to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons. The 3rd NPT PrepCom is the final session before the 2026 Review Conference, where states parties to the treaty will assess the NPT implementation. The session runs from April 28 to May 9.
