President Marcos on Friday expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and continuing violence in the Middle East. He urged all concerned parties to negotiate for peace.
“The Philippines as well is gravely concerned over the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and the increasing tensions in the Middle East region, particularly in Lebanon,” President Marcos said in his intervention during the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane, Laos.
“We urge all parties to refrain from escalating the violence and to work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict. The Philippines supports a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine coexist
peacefully in mutual security,” he added.
A total of 11,000 Filipinos are in Lebanon, with 192 ready for repatriation, and around 413 in process, according to Philippine authorities.
President Marcos already directed different government agencies to mobilize their resources and assets to bring affected Filipinos home.
He called on all participating East Asian countries at the summit to renew their commitment towards a truly open, inclusive, and transparent regional architecture underpinned by the rule of law to address common challenges, and confront the critical issues.
On the Korean Peninsula issue, President Marcos urged North Korea to comply with all relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, noting the Philippines welcomes South Korea’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the peninsula.
