The Philippines' foreign policy has been anchored on building bridges, not walls, President Marcos told the diplomatic corps on Independence Day.

Speaking before foreign dignitaries and government officials during the traditional Vin d’Honneur at Malacañan Palace on Thursday, June 12, Marcos reaffirmed the Philippines’ independent foreign policy that aligns with national priorities and promotes international cooperation.

"Our independent foreign policy is informed by our development goals and reflects our national priorities. Ours is a proactive policy that is true to ourselves and responsive to the needs and aspirations of our people. Our engagements with the world are geared towards building peace and cooperation, and to fostering enduring partnerships,” Marcos said.

“We build bridges not walls. We forge alliances that are based on mutual respect, reciprocity and shared goals,” the President added.

The President recalled that when he assumed the presidency three years ago, his marching orders to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)and foreign services were clear: to reintroduce the Philippines to the world and inform the global community that the Philippines is open for business.

He directed the Foreign Affairs department to let the international community that the country seeks mutually beneficial cooperation with countries around the world who share its values and aspirations.

"In a matter of speaking, these marching orders are similar to the gargantuan task a revolutionary government had to accomplish when the Philippines declared independence on this day in 1898, when our envoys had to secure international recognition of our nascent Republic," he said.

"Our country has since gone a long way from a fledgling Republic to an active and responsible member of the community of nations. Our growth as a country has allowed us to play significant roles in the global discourse of climate change, human rights, migration, regional stability and freedom in the seas, and most other issues," Marcos said.

"More than that, we have also expanded our diplomacy to include serving as consensus builders between and amongst nations on issues of international significance. We have positioned ourselves on the world stage so we can participate in international dialogue, safeguard our national interests, and contribute to the common good," he added.

Marcos also took the opportunity to campaign for the Philippines in its bid for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council for the term of 2027 to 2028.

"We just finished an election and I cannot stop campaigning," he said. "We earnestly hope to receive the support of your respective governments in that field."

The Philippines' candidature, he said, is anchored in the country’s legacy in multilateralism as evidenced by its history of forging cooperation and seeking peace.

Held every Independence Day, the Vin d’Honneur brings together foreign envoys and government leaders and serves as a platform for the Chief Executive to thank international partners and underscore the Philippines’ growing role in regional and global affairs.