The Philippines is pushing for a reform on the United Nations Security Council, particularly expanding the membership to the council.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo made the statement in his speech at the General Debate of the 79th Session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York City.
Manalo underscored that the UN "must rise to the occasion" amid rapid changes around the world.
"The UN must rise to the occasion with an agenda that fosters equity, justice, international peace and security, development, and adopts processes that are inclusive, transparent, responsive and effective," Manalo stated.
"One way to achieve this is to reform the Security Council and revitalize the General Assembly," he added.
The DFA official emphasized that the reform must include the expansion of its membership and improvement of its working methods.
"Security Council reform should be a package consisting of the enlargement of its membership and improvement of its working methods, in order to create greater transparency and accountability of the Council to the general membership of the UN," he said.
Manalo also underscored that "transforming the international financial architecture is also imperative" to realize just and inclusive growth worldwide, adding that UN must deliver on the Addis Ababa Action Agenda— a new global framework for financing sustainable development by aligning all financing flows and policies with economic, social and environmental priorities.
Manalo also called for support for the Philippines' bid for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
"The Philippines is a trusted partner, innovative pathfinder and committed peacemaker. We bring experience, depth and steadfastness in working with the international community to address common global challenges," Manalo said.
"We thus count on your support for our bid for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for the term 2027 to 2028," he added.