Marcos reaffirms resolve to strengthen ties with allied countries

PRESIDENT FERDINAND“Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday renewed his commitment to further bolster the Philippines' relations with its allied countries.

Marcos made the vow when he hosted a traditional Vin d'honneur with diplomats at the National Museum of the Philippines, the place where his inauguration as the country's 17th President also took place.

"I thank you all for bringing us the honor of your presence here today. Furthermore, I thank you for the very kind wishes of congratulations from your countries, from your governments, from your heads of state, and for the continuing offer that you have made to the Philippines for support and partnership in the future," he told the envoys.

Marcos said his administration is focused on keeping the Philippines' good ties with countries it considers allies and partners.

"I cannot think of a better beginning to a new administration than to be able to have determined the partnerships and strengthen the relationships between our countries. And that is something that we will work with very, very clearly," he said.

Marcos also touched on global issues such as the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic and climate change.

He said the world's recovery from the pandemic will be "more balanced and stable" through continued cooperation among coronavirus-hit countries, including the Philippines.

"I still believe that the transformation of the world economy and our recovery from the pandemic will be dependent on our partners and our allies," Marcos said.

He also emphasized the need to address climate change, acknowledging that the Philippines is in "the most vulnerable position compared to many other countries."

"I am especially struck by the importance that all of your countries have come to put on climate change. I believe that it was unanimous, all the ambassadors, all the representatives from the different countries who I have met with have each made offers of help in terms of mitigation and adaptation to climate change," he said.

According to the Official Gazette, the term Vin d'honneur comes from the French practice which means "wine of honor." It traditionally takes place at the end of inaugurations, speeches, and ceremonies that marks the social life of the French provinces.

In the Philippines, the occasion is considered as a diplomatic event.

Marcos and Archbishop Charles Brown, Papal Nuncio and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, shared a toast along with other diplomats. (Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)