Amid ongoing diplomatic strains with China, the Philippines highlighted its commitment to multilateral cooperation during the 128th Independence Day celebrations on Friday at Malacañang Palace. Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan attended the Vin d’ Honneur hosted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos-Araneta, alongside other foreign envoys led by Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles John Brown.
The presence of the Chinese ambassador comes shortly after China barred Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his family from entry, while the Philippines recently lodged a diplomatic protest over Chinese floating structures in Bajo de Masinloc.
In his address, President Marcos expressed gratitude to international partners for their ongoing support, noting the Philippines’ efforts in its bid for a United Nations Security Council seat and its current role as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He emphasized the outcomes of the recent ASEAN Summit in Cebu, particularly the adoption of the ASEAN Maritime Leaders Declaration, which reinforced regional cooperation on maritime security, energy resilience, and food safety.
“At the Summit, our discussions focused on translating three core priorities into actionable, concrete, and practical cooperation: ensuring regional energy security and resilience, stabilizing food security, and safeguarding ASEAN nationals,” Marcos said.
Looking ahead, the President highlighted the Philippines’ upcoming hosting of the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia on July 24, reaffirming principles of mutual respect, non-interference, peaceful dispute resolution, and effective cooperation among Southeast Asian nations.
“Our abiding commitment to these principles, to multilateralism, and to the United Nations Charter remain steadfast. As a founding UN member, the Philippines will continue working with all nations to advance peace, stability, sustainable development, and a rules-based international order,” Marcos added.
The event underscored the Philippines’ dual approach: maintaining firm diplomatic stances on contentious issues while simultaneously reinforcing engagement and dialogue with global partners to ensure regional stability.