President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., saying that the Philippines maintains its stand to exist in a rules-based international order, renewed his call for support for the country’s campaign for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the term 2027-2028 in his Vin d’Honneur speech.

“Our candidature stands on our rich experience in building peace, forging consensus and finding new paths for cooperation,” he said.

“I take this opportunity anew to convey to your respective governments our earnest request for your support for our UNSC bid and we hope for your support when the time comes when we are sitting as a member of the Security Council,” he said.

The President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos welcomed government officials and members of the diplomatic corps at Malacañang for the annual toast tradition.

Marcos thanked the diplomatic corps for their support and for being “able partners” in various social and economic programs benefiting the Filipino people.

The First Couple hosted a Vin d’Honneur to celebrate the New Year, marking the occasion with representatives from countries with which the Philippines has diplomatic relations.

“I am delighted to once again see you all here today as we celebrate the beginning of 2025, a fresh start, and with renewed enthusiasm,” Marcos told the Palace guests.

The President reflected on his inaugural address, reaffirming his commitment to reintroduce the Philippines to the global stage.

“A great deal has transpired in the last two and a half years,” he said. “The Philippines has since embarked on a diplomatic agenda that leverages international partnerships which have translated to increased bilateral engagements and cooperation with traditional partners and new allies in key economic sectors and security areas.”

According to Marcos, the strong bilateral ties the Philippines has formed have resulted in a “vibrant exchange” of high-level visits by himself, other government officials, and their counterparts.

“Through our independent foreign policy, we have broadened and strengthened our diplomatic reach and engagements with the world,” he said.

Expanded diplomatic missions

Following the successful opening of four Philippine embassies in Europe and Latin America in 2024, the Philippines is set to open four more foreign service posts this year in North America, Asia and the Pacific. Once completed, the Philippines will have 102 active diplomatic posts worldwide.

Marcos also expressed his anticipation for the further expansion of ties with other nations, mentioning the recent openings of Bahrain and Slovenia embassies in the Philippines in 2024.

“The continued pursuit of our constitutionally mandated independent foreign policy has allowed us to function and flourish in the complex web of interactions with various international actors,” he said.

Economic gains

Marcos highlighted key economic achievements in 2024 that have mutually benefited the Philippines and its international partners.

In 2024, the economy posted a growth rate of 5.8 percent during the first three quarters. Marcos also cited a P4.42-trillion revenue, which contributed 16.7 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) — the highest in 27 years, since 1997.

After receiving the good news of the Philippines earning its first-ever credit rating upgrade to “A-,” Marcos expressed optimism for more investments in the Philippines, which will create more jobs for the Filipino people.

“My dream remains to be able to say that one day overseas work will be purely a matter of choice and not one of necessity,” he said.

Reiterating economic commitments

Marcos reiterated the government’s commitment to accelerating infrastructure investments, improving the ease of doing business, and boosting national competitiveness.

“These will support businesses, attract foreign investments, and spur higher economic growth,” he said.

“With a long history and a credible record of multilateral diplomacy, the Philippines is in a very strong position to take on more leadership roles that seek to advocate for consequential issues in the global agenda,” he added.