Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. concluded a two-day working visit to the United States, addressing the United Nations and meeting with U.S. officials and business leaders, as protests against his government and U.S. immigration policies took place in New York.
United Nations Address and Philippine Priorities
Marcos proclaimed his visit “very productive,” emphasizing efforts to promote peace amid global tensions and garner support for the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 term.
The President addressed the UN General Assembly, stressing the importance of the rule of law, multilateralism, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. He stated the Philippines would bring the voice of the Indo-Pacific, developing countries, climate-vulnerable nations, and middle-income countries to the Council, while also advancing South-South cooperation.
Marcos also hosted a diplomatic reception to rally further support for the Philippines’ UNSC bid, noting the country’s long-standing role in addressing global challenges since the founding of the United Nations in 1945 and its commitment as “a trusted and independent partner, pathfinder, and peacemaker.”
Meetings with U.S. Officials and Business Leaders
On the sidelines of the UN meetings, Marcos met with business leaders and investors, including executives from the US Medical Glove Company, to discuss establishing a manufacturing facility in the Philippines.
He also held discussions with senior leaders of JP Morgan on economic cooperation and global financial developments, including the impact of global tensions on oil prices and international markets. The talks also covered the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and the need for governments and institutions to prepare for its effects on industries, economies, and labor markets.
Protests Highlight Concerns
Protesters representing Filipino community organizations rallied near the hotel where Marcos and his delegation were staying, calling for prioritization of the needs of local and overseas Filipinos.
The protesters also denounced what they described as collusion with the Trump administration and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), citing ongoing corruption issues in the Philippines and concerns about the deportation and medical neglect of Filipino migrants in the U.S. They also raised concerns about overseas Filipino workers caught in the crossfire of war in the Middle East, which has led to rising prices for basic goods in the Philippines.
Leaders from Migrante USA and GABRIELA USA highlighted the experiences of Filipino women facing neglect and corruption from the Philippine Government, challenging claims by Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro that the situation of Filipino migrants in the U.S. was “calm.”
The groups shared stories of Filipina migrant women, including Tita Rebecca, a 70-year-old who was secretly deported by ICE without her family’s knowledge, and Alma Bowman, a migrant leader facing potential deportation despite living in the U.S. for years.
GABRIELA USA noted that oil prices in the Philippines have increased by as much as 20 pesos, burdening Filipino drivers and contributing to economic hardship.
Migrante Los Angeles leader Trina stated, “Lagi raw walang pera, walang badyet, pero nauuna ang personal na interes nila. Marami pang dapat din inaasikasuhin si Marcos maliban sa pagharap niya sa United Nations. Kahit na yung sa usaping ng korapsyon. Isa din yun sa way of corruption, yung paggastos nila sa mga lavish trips nila abroad.” [They always say there’s no money, no budget, but then they prioritize their personal interests. There are many things Marcos should be addressing rather than appearing in front of the United Nations. Even the issue of corruption. This is one way of corruption, their lavish spending on trips abroad.]
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
