President Marcos said war is “never in the national interest” of the Philippines as he expressed hope for the swift end of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

“It certainly was unexpected, and we never want war,” Marcos said when asked in an interview with Bloomberg if he supports the US-Israel war against Iran.

“Our foreign policy is very, very simple. It’s peace and the national interest. That’s it,” he added.

The President stressed that armed conflict runs counter to the country’s core foreign policy principles.

“And war is never in the national interest, as far as the Philippines is concerned,” he said.

Marcos did not directly endorse any side in the conflict, instead emphasizing peace as the government’s guiding position. He said the Philippines is closely monitoring developments while hoping tensions will ease soon.

“We are watching, waiting, hoping, and praying that this ends soon,” he said.

He added that a quick recalibration of the situation would allow countries, including the Philippines, to return to normal economic activity.

President Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae have agreed to work closely for the early de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East, with particular focus on ensuring safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

During a 20-minute phone conversation, Takaichi emphasized the importance of coordinating with the international community to secure safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route

Marcos, for his part, explained the Philippines’ position and ongoing efforts amid the crisis.

The two leaders concurred on strengthening cooperation toward the de-escalation of the situation.

The Palace has earlier said the government is implementing measures to cushion the effects of the conflict, including assistance to overseas Filipino workers and interventions to address rising fuel prices.