Marcos vows broadened engagement with int’l allies under ‘Bagong Pilipinas’

Philippines’ President Ferdinand Marcos Jr leads the flag raising and wreath laying ceremony during the country’s 126th Independence Day celebrations at Luneta Park in Manila on June 12, 2024. Agence France-Presse

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday vowed to broaden the country’s engagement with international allies under the “Bagong Pilipinas” brand of governance.

Marcos made the pronouncement during the vin d’honneur (wine of honor) at Malacañang, an official reception for government officials and the diplomatic corps, hosted by the President. This event is traditionally held twice a year during Independence Day and New Year’s.

In his speech, Marcos highlighted to attending diplomats “Bagong Pilipinas” or his administration’s brand of governance and leadership.

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With social and economic inclusivity and transformative change at the core of Bagong Pilipinas, Marcos said the Philippines with its new brand of leadership could further widen its engagement with other nations for the betterment of its people.

This, he said, includes being able “to build bridges in our various multilateral advocacies, such as for peace, economic development, climate change, amongst others.”

“We shall endeavor to enhance engagements with bilateral, regional, multilateral partners, especially in areas where cooperation has not yet reached its full potential,” said Marcos.

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“With Bagong Pilipinas, it is with confidence that I say that we are engaging the world for our country and for our people,” he added.

Among the attendees of the vin d’honneur were Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian and Russian ambassador Marat Pavlov.

Vice President Sara Duterte, meanwhile, was absent in the event.

INQUIRER.net has already asked the Office of the Vice President why Duterte was not present in the event, but no response has been received as of posting.

After the vin d’honneur, Marcos is set to attend the Independence Day Parade at the Quirino Grandstand at 5 p.m., which will feature a free concert of pop girl group sensation BINI.