FL Liza reinforces role as diplomatic standard-bearer at Dubai multilateral summit

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos delivered a keynote address at the Climate Adaptability & Energy Forum during the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai on 13 February 2025, underscoring the significance of sustainable governance, public-private collaboration, and global cooperation in tackling key societal challenges.

In her speech, the First Lady shared personal experiences in education, health, and environmental initiatives, offering insights into the transformative impact of joint efforts between the government and private sector.

Empowerment through education and healthcare

Araneta-Marcos reflected on her 28 years as a law professor, emphasizing the role of education in shaping future leaders. She highlighted her practice of teaching the same batch of law students for four consecutive years, witnessing their transformation from nervous freshmen to confident legal professionals.

"It’s always gratifying to see how education can empower the youth and prepare them for the challenges of the future," she said.

The First Lady also discussed her flagship health initiative, Lab for All, a mobile medical program providing free laboratory services, medical consultations, and essential healthcare resources to underserved communities.

"Government must bring medical services to the people and not the other way around," she stated, reiterating her husband’s vision for accessible healthcare. What started as a modest effort to provide free medical assistance has expanded into a comprehensive outreach program, offering business mentorship, legal services, scholarships, and agricultural support.

Environmental revitalization and global partnerships

Araneta-Marcos also highlighted efforts to revitalize the Pasig River, a once-polluted waterway in Metro Manila. She credited the inter-agency committee established by President Marcos for overseeing the river’s rehabilitation and acknowledged the vital support from the UAE’s Clean Rivers initiative in restoring its natural beauty.

"Slowly but surely, we were able to construct an esplanade where everyone, from all walks of life, can bike, stroll, and break bread along the river," she shared, expressing optimism that the project will be a showcase for the Philippines during its hosting of the ASEAN Summit in 2026.

Strengthening international cooperation

Beyond her keynote address, the First Lady engaged in high-level discussions on strategic agreements, including the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the Philippines and the UAE. She reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to fostering international collaboration for economic growth and resilience.

"Government cannot do it alone. We need to work closely with the private sector," she emphasized, calling for strengthened global partnerships in addressing pressing issues.

The World Governments Summit 2025, held under the theme "Shaping Future Governments," convened over 30 heads of state, 400+ ministers, and thousands of global leaders to discuss governance, sustainability, and innovative solutions for the future.

The First Lady’s growing role Phl diplomacy

This isn't the first time Marcos has stood out on the global stage. She represented our nation at the Global Women’s Forum, also in Dubai, on 26 November 2024. There, she engaged with international leaders on policies supporting women’s empowerment. She also met with UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to discuss cultural and artistic collaborations between the Philippines and the UAE.

Further strengthening international ties, the First Lady played a key role in the signing of a memorandum of understanding for cultural cooperation between the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the UAE’s Ministry of Culture. She emphasized the importance of preserving heritage and fostering cultural exchanges to strengthen diplomatic relations.

“This partnership highlights our shared dedication to preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage,” Mrs. Marcos said at the signing ceremony. “I’m truly thankful for the UAE’s support — whether it’s for restoring historic treasures like Intramuros or showcasing Filipino artistry in Abu Dhabi through cultural exchanges. This collaboration ensures that our rich heritage will continue to shine on the global stage.”

The First Lady has also reinforced bilateral relationships through hospitality at home. on Tuesday, 11 February, she welcomed Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet, First Lady of Cambodia, to the Philippines during her husband Prime Minister Hun Manet state visit. Their meeting included a tour of historic Intramuros.

The visit also featured a state luncheon and a formal exchange of gifts at Malacañang Palace, symbolizing the deep-rooted diplomatic relationship between the two nations.

For 67 years, the Philippines and Cambodia have maintained a strong and enduring partnership, fostered through economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared values.

Mrs. Marcos highlighted this bond in a social media post, emphasizing the collaboration between the two countries in trade, tourism, and defense, among other areas. She expressed confidence that Prime Minister Hun Manet’s visit would pave the way for even greater opportunities for bilateral cooperation.

“May this visit be the start of even more meaningful exchanges and lasting friendship between our two nations!” Mrs. Marcos said.