On the occasion of the WTO’s 30th anniversary, the Philippines, together with 39 WTO member economies and other “Friends of the System,” co-sponsored a historic document titled “Statement in Support of the Rules-Based Multilateral Trading System.” This statement reaffirms the commitment to the core values of the WTO and its ongoing role in shaping global trade.
In a nod to the spirit of the 1994 Marrakesh Agreement, the statement underscores the importance of the WTO’s contributions to global trade since its founding in 1995. It highlights the organization’s achievements in fostering a free, fair, inclusive, and sustainable multilateral trading system, which remains vital despite the evolving global economic landscape. With increasing protectionism, trade disruptions, and climate change, the WTO continues to play a central role in maintaining a rules-based system that provides stability and predictability.
WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, in her remarks, stressed that the current uncertainties in global trade have underscored the WTO’s value as a cornerstone of stability. She said, “The uncertainty surrounding global trade has reminded many members why they value the WTO—as a bedrock of predictability in the global economy and as a platform for dialogue and cooperation on trade.”
The statement also emphasizes the need for reform within the organization to ensure its continued relevance in a rapidly changing world. Director-General Okonjo-Iweala highlighted that these economic challenges present an opportunity to “change the system for the better” and called on WTO members to engage in meaningful discussions. She proposed that these reforms should begin in Geneva and culminate in a ministerial debate and endorsement at the upcoming 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14).
In his statement, Philippine Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the WTO, Manuel A.J. Teehankee, reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to the WTO’s core principles. He said, “The Philippine co-sponsorship of the statement reaffirms our steadfast commitment to using trade as a tool for development and prosperity for the global community of nations.”
The 30th Anniversary Statement was issued during the WTO’s anniversary celebration on April 10, 2025. The event was attended by distinguished figures, including former Portuguese Prime Minister and former European Commission President José Manuel Barroso, State Councillor Ms. Anne Hiltpold of the Republic and Canton of Geneva, former WTO Directors-General Ambassador Roberto Azevêdo and Dr. Supachai Panitchpakdi, and former Chairs of the General Council. The gathering also included members from international organizations and the private sector.
The Philippines has been a founding member of the WTO since its establishment on January 1, 1995, and continues to play a key role in supporting the organization’s mission and principles.
