By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
NEW YORK CITY – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. arrived here Sunday (New York time) for a series of engagements at the United Nations (UN) where he is expected to advocate for peace amid tensions in the Middle East and promote women’s rights and empowerment.
The presidential plane landed at Newark Liberty International Airport at around 2 p.m.
Marcos’ working visit to New York from March 9 to 10 includes a meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and speaking engagements at the UN headquarters, where he will highlight the country’s commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation.
He is expected to emphasize the Philippines’ efforts to promote, advance, and protect the rights and welfare of women and girls during his address at the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women.
He is also scheduled to speak at a special plenary meeting of the UN General Assembly to rally support for the Philippines’ candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027 to 2028.
Marcos is the fifth leader to hold a special session since 2024.
He is likewise expected to meet with Guterres to discuss the situation in the Middle East and reaffirm the Philippines’ support for the UN and rules-based international order.
His visit to the US comes amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, with his participation seen as crucial in advancing calls for peace and the protection of civilians in the region.
Marcos will also hold several business meetings on the sidelines of his UN engagements.
Marcos is accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., and Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Dave Gomez. (PNA)
