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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Lazaro to represent Marcos at UNGA, will reaffirm PH commitment to multilateralism, rules-based int'l order

Lazaro to represent Marcos at UNGA, will reaffirm PH commitment to multilateralism, rules-based int'l order

Published Sep 16, 2025 09:31 am  |  Updated Sep 16, 2025 01:14 pm
DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro (Photo from DFA)
DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro (Photo from DFA)
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro will lead the Philippine delegation at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) after Malacañang announced that President Marcos would skip the event to focus on domestic issues.

The DFA made the statement on Tuesday, Sept. 16, sharing that Lazaro will reaffirm the Philippines’ commitment to multilateralism and a rules-based order.

“She will highlight the Philippines’ role in addressing complex challenges as well as the country’s call for a stronger UN - one that promotes peace, security, climate action, migrant protection, and sustainable development,” the statement read.

The UNGA High-Level Week will be held from Sept. 21 to 27 in New York City.

“Together with other officials from the Philippine government, she will engage in high-level discussions on critical issues, including on Artificial Intelligence, climate financing, migration, biodiversity, and maritime security,” the DFA said.

“She will also meet with foreign ministers to strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties, promoting Philippine interests and advancing national priorities,” it added.

The UNGA will also serve as an opportunity for the Philippine delegation to ramp up its efforts in pursuing the country’s bid to become a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2027-2028.

On Monday, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed that the President will no longer attend the 80th UNGA to keep his focus on the current issues plaguing the country.

Instead, Marcos has delegated the DFA to represent him in the General Assembly and push for the country’s advocacies.

The President first attended the UNGA during his first year in office in 2022, where he pushed for climate action, food security, and respect for international law.

His nonattendance this year comes at a critical time of his administration, which faces massive corruption over anomalous infrastructure projects.

Related Tags

Ma. Theresa Lazaro DFA President Marcos UN General Assembly New York
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