New York, March 10 (AseanAll)  — Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reiterated the country’s adherence to multilateralism and commitment to the United Nations Charter, underscoring the importance of the rule of law and respect for human rights.

“All our efforts will mean little nor will they endure without the rule of law and respect for human rights,” President Marcos said in a special address to the UN General Assembly in New York City on March 10, 2026.

“The Philippines has consistently affirmed its resolute commitment to the rule of law and the promotion, protection and respect, of human rights,” the President added.

The decision of the Philippines to join the United Nations 80 years ago, Marcos said, was anchored on the belief that the rule of law is the beacon that guides the journey towards peace, security and shared prosperity.

With its commitment to multilateralism and the UN Charter, President Marcos said the Philippines, as a responsible State Party, abides by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“We are steadfast in our dedication to diplomacy, the peaceful settlement of disputes and the constructive management of differences to prevent escalation of disputes,” President Marcos pointed out.

“We remain faithful to the principles of territorial integrity and the sovereign equality of all states,” the President said.

The nation’s faith and commitment to the United Nations has never wavered in the eight decades of its membership, President Marcos added, noting the country has always risen to the occasion whenever it is called.

Marcos is in New York to rally support for the country’s candidature to a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).