Focusing on national development programs instead of hosting or attending international meets has allowed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to realize substantial savings in public funds.

Only recently, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. begged off from hosting the 15th Session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD XV) and the World Investment Forum in 2020.

The Philippines was considered as host of the two meets by the UN.

In his letter to UNCTAD Secretary General Mukhisa Kituyi, Locsin maintained, however, that the Philippines remains supportive of the UN agency.

“I regret to inform you, however, that the Philippines is unable to host the conference at this time to give priority to the country’s national development programs,” Locsin stated.

“Rest assured that the Philippines will continue its strong support for UNCTAD and is committed to actively participate in UNCTAD XV,” he added.

In a social media post, Locsin said that the government would save about $1 million for begging off from the two UN meets.

“Over $1 million saved,” the DFA head said.

Recently, Locsin also turned down a migration meet for Ecuador set in Manila.

Apart from begging off in hosting international conferences, Locsin has also turned down travelling with a huge entourage in attending meetings abroad.

Locsin said that such moves do not only save public funds but also efforts of host embassies abroad.

“Turning down a migration conference for Ecuador but hosted by us in Manila another giant saving; my refusal to travel with scores of staff that burden our embassies abroad a milestone,” said Locsin.