MANILA — António Guterres, secretary-general of the United Nations, commended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to promote peace and democratic governance.
The remarks came during a meeting at UN headquarters on Monday, held on the sidelines of the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Guterres also extended his best wishes to the Philippines as it campaigns for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
According to Castro, the UN chief emphasized the Philippines’ reputation as a constructive voice within the international community.
He described the country as a “bridge-builder” in the UN and expressed hope that its influence would continue to grow within the organization.
The election for new non-permanent members of the Security Council is set for June 3.
Guterres likewise voiced the UN’s support for the Philippines as it prepares to assume the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, recognizing the regional bloc’s role in fostering cooperation and stability.
He also acknowledged ASEAN’s commitment to international law, particularly its respect for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Marcos, in turn, reaffirmed the Philippines’ dedication to the UN, highlighting the country’s longstanding partnership with the global organization as one of its founding members.
The President also recalled meeting Guterres in October 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, where discussions focused on developments in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Marcos noted that progress has been made in the region and said elections in BARMM are expected later this year.
He also expressed gratitude to the UN for its continued assistance in the region, including financial and development support from UN agencies aimed at strengthening peace and socio-economic growth.
elamigo/xf
