Marcos calls for end to racism

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called for the elimination of racism and Asian hate as he pledged to accelerate the implementation of a human rights joint programme with the United Nations.

“We still dream of an end to the disturbing incidents of racism, of Asian hate, of all prejudice,” Marcos said in a speech at the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

The Philippines-United Nations Joint Programme on Human Rights, he said, is an example of a constructive approach that “puts our people, not our politics, at the center of this work.”

“It provides a model for revitalizing the structures that facilitate solidarity between the United Nations and a sovereign duty-bearer,” added Marcos.

The joint programme seeks to affirm the country’s commitment to human rights, the importance of free democratic space for civil society, as well as the principle of international cooperation.

In his speech, Marcos said the challenges today are as consequential as those that faced us seventy-seven years ago when the UN was founded.

“We are, indeed, at a watershed moment; one that requires a re-founding of these, our United Nations. The world is ready for transformation. It is up to us as leaders of our nations to move and shape that transformation,” he said.

Security Council

Marcos also urged member states to support the country’s candidature to the UN Security Council for the term 2027-2028, citing the Philippines’ success in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao.

“The peace that we have forged after many decades of conflict among warring factions and clansmen demonstrates that unity is possible even in the most trying circumstances,” he said.

A credible and solid foundation for self-government, Marcos said, was a result of inclusive dialogue involving all stakeholders, including women, youth, faith leaders, and civil society.

The Philippines takes the same approach in Asia, the chief executive added, noting that the country builds partnerships for peace and development through dialogue, including through interfaith and inter-religious dialogue, especially through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

“In the face of great diversity, we believe that partnerships form the bridge to unite all of us in promoting peace and stability in the Asia Pacific region,” Marcos said.

He also raised the need to create a reformed and more inclusive security council and an empowered general assembly that can hold the council to account and likewise cited the importance of equipping nations, especially developing countries, with the tools needed to navigate the uncharted waters of this century.

The Philippines is one of the original 51 charter members that created the UN. (Mindanao Examiner)