DFA: Phl building stronger alliances for ASEAN, UN leadership roles

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Theresa Lazaro on Wednesday reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to peaceful diplomacy and international cooperation, citing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s foreign policy of being “a friend to all and enemy to none.”

In a post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) forum in San Juan City, Lazaro underscored that the DFA is at the forefront of realizing this diplomatic vision.

“Kami po siguro ang talagang nagdadala nitong mga salitang ito dahil kami po ang nakikipag-usap sa lahat ng mga bansa sa buong mundo (We are really sure of these words because we are talking with all of the countries worldwide),” she said.

Lazaro also emphasized the critical role of alliances in promoting national interests, particularly in defending the Philippines’ sovereignty and supporting Filipino workers abroad.

“Marami po tayong mga ka-alyansa sa buong mundo na nagbibigay sa atin ng maraming tulong. Una, itinataguyod nila ang rule of law, particularly the UNCLOS at Arbitral Award natin, so ito ’yong peaceful resolution of disputes, tinutulungan tayo ng mga ’yan (Our allies around the world support the rule of law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and our 2016 Arbitral Award. These alliances are vital in pursuing peaceful resolution of disputes),” she said, in reference to ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

Further, Lazaro highlighted the assistance the Philippines receives in matters affecting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), especially seafarers who often face challenges abroad.

Beyond labor and legal matters, Lazaro pointed out that international partners also contribute significantly to the Philippines' development efforts. These include support for infrastructure projects, defense modernization, and broader socioeconomic initiatives.

Looking ahead, Lazaro announced major milestones in Philippine diplomacy in the coming year. The country will assume the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, a responsibility that places the Philippines at the center of regional dialogue.

She cited this as a major summit involving ASEAN nations and dialogue partners.

“We will be discussing political-security issues, economic matters, and socio-cultural concerns,” she added, pointing out that various government agencies will collaborate to ensure the Philippines’ leadership role is strongly felt.

Additionally, the Philippines is campaigning for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, with elections scheduled for June 2026.

“Pag nakuha po natin ’yung posisyon na ’yan, plus the chairship ng ASEAN, this will be a very momentous occasion para sa bayan (If we secure the seat, along with our ASEAN chairship, this will mark a momentous chapter for our country),” Lazaro noted.

“This is the projection of a ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ under the leadership of President Marcos, among others.”

The DFA, according to Lazaro, is working steadily to ensure these opportunities translate into lasting diplomatic gains and international recognition of the Philippines as a consensus builder and peace advocate on the global stage.