Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo met with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in New York to reaffirm the Philippines’ commitment to multilateralism and to discuss key areas of cooperation with the United Nations.
During the meeting, Secretary Manalo underscored the Philippines’ deep commitment to the UN Charter and its founding principles, emphasizing the country’s longstanding role as a founding member of the organization. He reaffirmed the Philippines’ steadfast support for multilateralism, international law, and a rules-based international order.
Secretary-General Guterres expressed his strong appreciation for the Philippines’ “credible, valuable, and positive” contributions to the United Nations, highlighting the country’s consistent partnership in advancing peace and security, sustainable development, human rights, and environmental protection. He noted the enduring excellence of Philippines-UN relations.
The two leaders discussed pressing global challenges, with a particular focus on climate change. Both recognized the urgent need for innovative and sustainable solutions to climate adaptation financing, including the operationalization and replenishment of the Loss and Damage Fund. They agreed that increased financing and investments are essential to help address the Philippines’ high vulnerability to climate impacts.
In addition to climate issues, the meeting covered matters related to financing for development, peacekeeping efforts, and the reform of the UN Security Council.
Secretary-General Guterres conveyed his warm greetings to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., and extended his congratulations to the Filipino people on the occasion of Philippine Independence Day.
Secretary Manalo was joined by Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo, Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations, along with other senior officers of the Philippine Mission to the UN.
