President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has decided not to attend the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) High-Level Week in New York City, choosing instead to focus on critical domestic matters. The President has appointed Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro to serve as his official representative at the event, which begins on September 22.
Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez confirmed the decision in a statement, emphasizing the President’s commitment to addressing local issues. “The President has delegated his engagements at the UNGA to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs to allow him to focus on local issues,” Gomez stated.
Focus on Key Domestic Initiatives
President Marcos’s decision to remain in the Philippines highlights his administration’s dedication to its domestic agenda, which was demonstrated through a series of key activities on Monday.
The day began with the announcement of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), a body tasked with investigating irregularities in flood control and other infrastructure projects. This move underscores the administration’s resolve to ensure transparency and accountability in public works.
The President then led the inauguration and awarding of more than 1,000 housing units at St. Barts Southville Heights in San Pablo City, Laguna. These homes were provided to informal settler-families displaced by the construction of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) South Long Haul Project Segment 2-7, reflecting the government’s commitment to housing and social welfare.
Later, President Marcos spearheaded the energization of the Citicore Solar Batangas 1 Power Plants in Tuy, Batangas. This project is a significant step toward expanding the nation’s renewable energy portfolio and ensuring a sustainable power supply for local communities and industries.
The day concluded with the President gracing the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program National Culminating Activity in Taguig City. This initiative, which supports children’s reading and learning, aligns with the administration’s focus on strengthening foundational education and youth development.
President Marcos’s calendar of events demonstrates his administration’s prioritization of actionable domestic projects and reforms over international travel. The President believes that his direct involvement in these initiatives is crucial for their successful implementation and for the benefit of the Filipino people.
