Marcos vows to work closely with Holy See for safe global migration
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. joins Archbishop Charles Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, and other leaders of the Catholic Church and members of the diplomatic community at the reception commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Holy See on April 8, 2026 at the Ayuntamiento de Manila in Intramuros. (Photo courtesy of PCO)
The Philippines will work closely with the Holy See to implement the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), President Marcos said.
Marcos made the commitment during his remarks at the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Holy See Diplomatic relations on Wednesday, April 8.
He said that the Philippines is mindful of the hardships endured by the diaspora, including seafarers, in their pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families.
"The Philippines looks forward to deepening its collaboration with the Holy See on the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration—the world’s first comprehensive intergovernmental plan to protect the rights of migrants," Marcos said.
"In a world that has become increasingly volatile, uncertain, and complex, the Philippines cannot face today’s challenges alone," he added, noting that the country rely on its partners—like the Holy See— who share the same commitment to building more just, humane, and inclusive communities.
According to a report from the United Nations Network on Migration, the Philippines has been a staunch advocate of the protection of the rights and promotion of the welfare of migrants, through the implementation of the GCM since its adoption by the UN General Assembly in December 2018.
In his speech, the President also reaffirmed his commitment to "championing dialogue over division, reconciliation over conflict, and service over self-interest."
He said that at the heart of the Philippines’ relationship with the Holy See is a shared commitment to peace, human dignity, and social justice.
These values, he added, continue to anchor the partnership as a living testament to a shared faith and purpose.
Marcos noted that across the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, the Holy See has supported peacebuilding initiatives and encouraged interfaith dialogue, helping Filipino communities bridge divides and foster reconciliation.