President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. expressed solidarity with Palestinians during the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and humanitarian efforts amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

“We stand united with the Palestinian people – men, women, and children – in their collective aspiration for an enduring peace and prosperity,” Marcos stated.

Marcos voiced concern over the “catastrophic” humanitarian situation caused by the escalating conflict in Gaza and tensions in the Middle East. He condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, noting the alarming casualties, particularly among women and children.

“We urge all parties to refrain from escalating the violence and to work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict,” he said. Marcos also called for “rapid, safe, unimpeded, and sustained humanitarian access” for victims, highlighting the urgent need for food, water, medicine, and other necessities.

Marcos stressed that diplomacy remains the cornerstone of achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.

“We recognize that the conflict can only be resolved through diplomatic engagement, dialogue, and comprehensive negotiations rooted in international law,” he noted.

The Chief Executive vowed that the Philippines will fully support initiatives that are directed to the revival and achievement of peace in the Middle East.

“We urge all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict, with a view to realizing the two-state solution,” he said.

Since 2023, Palestinians have been engaged in an armed conflict with Israel as Hamas-led militant groups occupied the Gaza Strip and launched an attack against Israel.

As of November 2024, the war has resulted in over 45,000 casualties, with the majority of them women and children.