Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo believes that the Philippines is heading to become a bridge builder among major powers in the discussions of global concerns.
Since the Philippines is a middle power, Manalo said it essentially means “more diplomatic and political space” for international engagements “that are designed to translate into real and tangible benefits” for the country and the people.
“Our country has been at the forefront of many discussions and discourses on important global issues…either as a lead proponent/champion or as a like-minded supporter,” he said following his nomination as awardee of Carlos P. Romulo Foundation for Peace and Development.
Among issues that the country took lead in were migration and climate change, gender empowerment, maritime peace, disarmament and non-proliferation, he said.
“I believe that this is a natural course where our country is inevitably heading,” Manalo, who has served in the foreign service for four decades from the administration of former President Marcos Sr. to President Marcos Jr., said.
Manalo made the same remark in an earlier speech delivered at the fellows meeting of American think tank Foundation for Economic Freedom.
He said middle powers, like the Philippines, “operate with agency and on basis of common interests that breach traditional regional and ideological divides.
It thus can redraw new spheres of confluence distinct from the competing visions of contending strategic rivals, he said.
“Because of this, middle powers stand in a pivotal place to shape a new age in global order that remains governed by the rule of law, but is far more attuned to the demands of equity and justice,” he added.
The country’s top diplomat said Manila started embracing the middle power role “more fully, serving as a bridge-builder in most cases, and capitalizing on our balanced and constructive approach to issues.”
Manila also capitalized on a steadily growing economy and dynamic and resilient population who drive innovation and creativity, he said.
“This was evident when I joined security experts and other high government officials in last month’s Munich Security Conference where Philippine views on the future of the Indo-Pacific region were actively sought by the delegates of participating countries and institutions,” Manalo added.