The Philippines has reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of the United Nations, particularly its goals to overcome conflict, crisis and possible catastrophes, as the organization celebrates its 77th founding anniversary on Monday, Oct. 24.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo stressed the need to maintain a more peaceful, united, and prosperous world amid climate change and food insecurity, which have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic and increasing geopolitical conflicts.
"As President Ferdinand R. Marcos stated recently at the United Nations General Assembly, 'We need the United Nations to continue to work. And we, the Philippines, are determined to be part of that solution,'" the country's top diplomat said in a statement.
Throughout the years, Manalo took pride of the country's active membership and staunch advocacy for the values and ideals of the United Nations.
"We have always stood up for sovereign equality of states, peaceful resolution of disputes, equal rights of women and men, inclusive social development, the rule of law, and justice for all," he said.
Today, he added, the Philippines even "plays a constructive role in the United Nations as a bridge-builder and champion of vulnerable groups, such as children and migrants, and developing countries' interests."
Amid the challenges that continue to confront the world, Manalo believed, there are still many opportunities to forge stronger international cooperation to realize the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
"Against this backdrop, the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to uphold the principles upon which the United Nations was founded, forging cordial ties with the members of the community of nations, and strengthening partnerships to realize our national and collective aspiration of peace, security, and development for all peoples," he said.
"On this occasion of our commemoration of UN Day, we uphold the important place of the United Nations in these efforts and commit to advancing its role in ensuring a better, safer, and more sustainable future," he added.