President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. departed for the United States on Sunday, March 8, for an official working visit. He will participate in United Nations engagements in New York from March 9 to 10. This comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran in the Middle East.
On March 8, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. left the Philippines at 10:22 a.m. for a working visit to the United States, according to the Presidential Communications Office. During his trip, he will engage in activities at the United Nations in New York from March 9 to 10.
According to Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Angelica Escalona's statement on March 6, Marcos will urge parties to negotiate and respect international law amid the discord between the United States and Iran in the Middle East. He is scheduled to meet with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Additionally, he will attend the opening of the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women and address a special session of the UN General Assembly.
The day before, on March 7, Marcos instructed government agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing potential impacts from the US-Iran tensions. Oil prices are anticipated to increase next week following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the global oil supply passes.
This visit reflects the Philippines' efforts to actively participate in international affairs while maintaining domestic preparedness.
