(POLITIKO) Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has appealed to his fellow parliamentarians in Tashkent, Uzbekistan to support the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term.
Estrada made the appeal as he presided over the ASEAN+ 3 meeting during the ongoing 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), which highlighted the country’s dedication to peaceful dispute resolution, regional stability, and multilateral cooperation amid global challenges.
“The Philippines, as the first Asian republic and a founding member of the United Nations, is committed to upholding the rule of law and pursuing peace and equality. We are a trusted partner and dedicated peacemaker, collaborating with the international community to tackle global challenges,” Estrada said.
“As a developing country, the Philippines can set an example for smaller and less influential nations that champion the rule of law in peacefully resolving external conflicts, engaging in peacebuilding initiatives, conducting diplomatic efforts, and fostering multilateral cooperation to enhance regional stability and address geopolitical challenges,” he added.
Estrada stressed that the Philippine government has been involved in peacebuilding initiatives and has consistently called for dialogue and mutual respect among nations to address geopolitical challenges.
“Our candidacy is anchored in the Philippines’ longstanding advocacy for adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), in addressing territorial disputes. Our aspiration to serve on the UNSC is driven by our desire to contribute meaningfully to the promotion of peace, justice, and multilateral cooperation,” Estrada said.
The Philippines previously served as a non-permanent member of the UNSC during the terms 1957, 1963, 1980–1981, and 2004–2005.
The country aims to promote multilateralism and contribute to global peace and security.
“As representatives of your governments, I appeal to each of you to support the Philippines’ candidacy. Let us work together toward a future where collaboration and mutual respect guide our actions,” Estrada said.