At best, friendly international relations are crucial to the Philippines, as they directly contribute to national security, economic prosperity, and the welfare of Filipinos overseas —the three pillars of Philippine foreign policy.

At worst, let us still agree to disagree, applying the best of our diplomacy to seek common ground in economic areas, as in our relations, most especially with China, often contentious, on core sovereignty and security issues.

In the area of the National Economy

Friendly relations facilitate the exchange of goods, agreements such as Free Trade Agreements and the Generalized System of Preferences that offer the Philippines better and more secure market access for its choice agricultural products, such as durian and bananas, and reduced tariffs on its exports (e.g., electronics, agricultural goods). This attracts foreign direct investment (FDI), which creates jobs, provides stable funding for the economy, and facilitates technology transfer.

Participation in the global economy through normalized or stable relations stimulates overall economic growth, promotes industrial specialization and diversification, and improves the general standard of living of the Filipino people.

Enhanced regional and global integration, along with a climate of harmony, attract more international tourists, supporting local businesses in the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors.

In the area of National Security

Active engagement in regional organizations and cooperation, such as ASEAN—and good relations with major powers—help shape the regional environment and foster stability and harmony.

Cooperation with other nations is essential for addressing global issues that cross borders, such as climate change, human rights, and the fight against terrorism and illegal activities.

Normalized relations, including participation in international law and conventions, help the Philippines assert its sovereignty and territorial integrity and its rights over its maritime territory and natural resources, and gets other countries to respect those rights.

In the area of the Welfare of Overseas Filipinos

A robust foreign service, supported by positive diplomatic relations, can effectively monitor the conditions of the approximately 10 million Filipinos living and working abroad to provide round-the-clock legal and consular assistance, and ensure their security and welfare.

The large number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) is a critical source of foreign income and a driver of social and economic stability in the Philippines.

Friendly relations with host countries is vital for ensuring a safe working environment and protecting the rights of these workers.

In essence, a foreign policy rooted in normalized friendly relations creates an environment where the Philippines can focus its resources on national development, ensure the safety of its citizens both at home and abroad, and participate in global initiatives for the common good.

Now, on a special note, I can’t end this piece without saying this. Cannot our diplomats and heads of state, Xi Jinping of China and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines, isolate their disagreements on the contentious issues of core sovereignty and security, and agree to disagree only thereon.

For the mutual interest of both the Chinese and the Filipino people, let not the disagreements on core issues interfere with the flow of goods like durian and bananas to China—covered by a trade agreement of preference—if only to satisfy the Chinese appetite for these choicest of fruits produced in unlimited abundance by Filipino farmers.

Email: arturobesana2@gmail.com