President Marcos bats for PH Non-Permanent Seat at UN Security Council | Photo via President Communications Office (PCO)
NEW YORK — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday made a forceful appeal for the Philippines’ election to a non‑permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), addressing diplomats and a large contingent of Filipino community members who filled the gallery to witness the country’s renewed push for a role in global peace and security. The President said the Philippines was prepared to “serve with balance, integrity, and a deep commitment to peace.”
“We come before this body not to seek prestige, but to offer partnership,” Marcos said in his remarks at the UN General Assembly Hall. “The Philippines stands ready to help calm tensions, bridge divides, and strengthen the multilateral system that keeps our world from sliding into deeper conflict.”
The President’s appearance marked the second day of his working visit to New York, where he also met with UN Secretary‑General António Guterres and engaged with Filipino Americans who traveled from across the Northeast to show support.
Pitching the Philippines for the 2027–2028 Term
Marcos emphasized the Philippines’ long record of constructive engagement at the UN, citing its participation in peacekeeping missions, its leadership in Women, Peace, and Security initiatives, and its experience in conflict resolution through the Bangsamoro peace process.
“We have shown that even a small nation can help build peace,” he said. “Our history in Mindanao proves that dialogue, patience, and inclusive governance can transform conflict into cooperation.”
The Philippines is seeking election for the 2027–2028 non‑permanent seat, representing the Asia‑Pacific Group (APG). The vote will take place in June 2026 during the UN General Assembly’s annual elections for rotating Council seats.
The country last served on the Security Council in 2004–2005, marking a 22‑year gap if elected again.
A Competitive Regional Race
The Philippines faces one competitor within the Asia‑Pacific Group: Kyrgyzstan. Under UN rules, regional groups endorse candidates, but when more than one country seeks the same seat, the contest proceeds to a competitive vote in the General Assembly.
Diplomats familiar with the process say the Philippines is viewed as a strong contender, given its peacekeeping record, active role in maritime security, and reputation as a consensus‑builder in ASEAN.
No other head of state from competing countries addressed the UN on March 10, making Marcos the only leader to deliver a direct appeal during the day’s session. Other candidates from different regional groups also presented their bids, but none overlapped with the Philippines’ slot.
How the UN Votes for Security Council Seats
The election for non‑permanent seats is conducted by secret ballot in the 193‑member UN General Assembly. To win, a country must secure a two‑thirds majority, or 128 votes, regardless of how many nations are competing.
If no candidate reaches the threshold in the first round, the Assembly proceeds to additional rounds until a winner emerges. Regional groups typically negotiate endorsements to avoid contested races, but the Asia‑Pacific Group has seen competitive elections in past cycles.
Marcos acknowledged the challenge, saying the Philippines would “work tirelessly” to earn the trust of member states.
“We do not take any vote for granted,” he said. “We will engage every nation, large or small, because every voice in this Assembly matters.”
Strong Community Presence at the UN
The President’s speech drew an unusually large turnout from the Filipino community in the Northeast, with many arriving hours before the session to secure seats in the public gallery.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, who was in New York earlier in the week for speaking engagements at the Asia Society and Baruch College, was part of the official delegation and present at the United Nations during the President’s visit. She joined Permanent Representative Enrique A. Manalo, Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, and senior DFA and PCO officials.
Community members waved small Philippine flags and applauded as Marcos entered the hall, with several describing the moment as “historic” and “energizing” for Filipinos abroad.
“It’s rare to see a Philippine president speak at the UN with such a clear message,” said one attendee from Queens. “We felt proud to be here.”
A Bid Framed Around Peace and Principle
Marcos closed his address by framing the Philippines’ candidacy as a commitment to multilateralism amid rising global tensions.
“The world needs more voices that choose cooperation over confrontation,” he said. “The Philippines offers that voice — steady, principled, and ready to serve.”
The UN General Assembly will vote on the 2027–2028 Security Council seats in June, with the Philippines hoping to return to the body for the first time in more than two decades.
