Philippines allocates over P20 million in campaign for seat in UN Security Council

The Philippines has set aside P20.785 million for its campaign to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Malacañang announced.

Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro, citing a report from Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Theresa Lazaro, said the budget was allocated specifically for the country’s UNSC bid.

"Mayroon po, ayon po iyan sa 2026 GAA (General Appropriations Act) po natin. Mayroon pong budget," Castro said during a Palace briefing on Thursday, March 12.

When asked what the funds would cover, Castro explained that the budget is intended to support all campaign activities for the Philippines’ candidature, which will be decided on June 3.

"Sa lahat ng klase ng pangangampaniya para po maipakita ng ating Pangulo na tayo po ay interesado na magkaroon ng non-permanent seat sa UN Security Council," she said.

President Marcos returned to Manila late Wednesday from his working visit in New York, where he sought to rally international support for the Philippines’ UNSC bid.

Marcos said the country’s pursuit of a non-permanent seat for the 2027–2028 term demonstrates that the Philippines can represent voices from the Indo-Pacific, including developing nations, climate-vulnerable countries, and middle-income states.

During a special address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to promote the bid, Marcos stressed that the Philippines "is ready to be part of the solution."

"Always ready to be part of the solution, the Philippines has regularly proven itself to be an independent, trusted partner, an innovative pathfinder, and a committed peacemaker," he said.

"In the midst of mounting challenges and uncertainties, our United Nations need steady, committed, experienced hands; and we humbly offer ours - to serve in the UN Security Council for 2027 to 2028," he added.

During his visit, Marcos also hosted a luncheon reception for UN Permanent Representatives to gather support for the Philippines’ campaign for a UNSC seat.

-Paraluman News