Even as the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte dominated the public’s attention, Malacañang stressed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was not monitoring the Senate proceedings but remained focused on his official duties and meetings in the Palace.

The President spent the week reaffirming the country’s commitment to a rules-based international order, strengthening international partnerships and advancing programs to deliver economic and social benefits to Filipinos.

Among his week’s highlights was a diplomatic reception he hosted at the Conrad Manila in Pasay City on Friday to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the landmark 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea.

The 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration remains the cornerstone of the Philippines’ maritime position and its advocacy for the peaceful resolution of disputes under international law.

The commemoration underscored the Marcos administration’s commitment to protecting the country’s maritime rights while pursuing diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation with regional and international partners.

In his keynote address, the President reiterated that the Philippines’ foreign policy remains anchored on defending its national interest while deepening alliances and expanding cooperation with like-minded nations.

6 July

President Ferdinand Marcos did not leave the Palace to attend engagements.

7 July

Interaction with troops

On Tuesday, the President met with officers and men of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) who presented their accomplishments and operational updates during the 1st Semester CY 2026 AFP Command Conference held at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

The Commander-in-Chief was briefed on the progress of the AFP’s ongoing operations, strategic plans, and key programs aimed at achieving a resilient and secure archipelago through a coordinated national effort.

The command conference served as the AFP’s “campaign review” during which the military reported to the President on the implementation of its campaign plans, assessed operational gains, and discussed strategies to address emerging security challenges.

8 July

Investing in youth

The President spearheaded the nationwide launch of the school feeding program to improve learners’ health and support local farmers.

At the 2026 National Kick-Off of the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) and Milk Feeding Activity in Pulilan, Bulacan, the President said the government has expanded its feeding program nationwide to ensure that no learner goes hungry in school.

He said the government decided to expand the feeding program to benefit all learners rather than limit assistance to selected beneficiaries.

The Chief Executive underscored the importance of ensuring that learners don’t have to worry about what they’ll eat while attending school, saying that hunger remains one of the factors affecting children’s ability to learn.

9 July

Kids’ nutrition in focus

The President stressed that looking after the children’s health today is an investment in the country’s future.

He said the Department of Agriculture is part of the program to help ensure a steady supply of nutritious food while creating opportunities for local producers.

The SBFP is set to implement universal feeding for all Grade 1 learners nationwide, while continuing to provide hot meals, nutritious food products and milk to all Kindergarten learners and Grades 1-6 learners identified as Wasted and Severely Wasted.

Wages adapt to regional needs

Mr. Marcos announced on the sidelines of the SBFP launch that the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards are continuously evaluating wage conditions in every region to ensure that any increase in the minimum wage is appropriate and responsive to local economic realities.

He said the review of regional wage rates is ongoing, with each region assessing the appropriate rate of increase based on prevailing economic conditions.

The President noted the National Capital Region has approved a P85 daily wage increase, recognizing the higher cost of living in Metro Manila.

He said wage boards in other regions are expected to complete their deliberations in the coming months.