CONFLICT PREVENTION. Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN in New York Antonio Lagdameo delivers the country’s statement during a high-level open debate of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York on Aug. 21, 2024. The Philippines has urged the UNSC to advance a comprehensive and context-specific approach in conflict prevention. (Photo courtesy of UN)
MANILA – The Philippines urged the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to advance a comprehensive and context-specific approach in conflict prevention during a high-level open debate in New York on Aug. 21.
The UNSC debate on the “New Agenda for Peace —addressing global, regional, and national aspects of conflict prevention” sought to gather fresh perspectives from member states against the backdrop of a global uptick in violent conflict and a “regression in addressing threats to international peace and security”.
In delivering the country’s statement, Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN in New York Antonio Lagdameo shared Manila’s own successes in the Mindanao peace process that led to the establishment of the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“We encourage the Security Council to prioritize comprehensive, context-specific approaches to conflict prevention. This includes supporting inclusive political processes involving socioeconomic development and sustaining long term peace building efforts,” he said.
The UNSC, Lagdameo added, must encourage the participation of all actors that would help craft “concrete preventive actions and transition plans for peace operations”.
“The New Agenda for Peace should emphasize holistic strategies that addresses root causes while delivering tangible peace dividends,” he said.
“It should also recognize the critical role of regional organizations and neighboring countries in facilitating dialog and supporting implementation."
Meanwhile, Lagdameo reaffirmed Manila’s readiness to share its experiences as a UNSC non-permanent member candidate for 2027-2028.
“As partner, pathfinder and peacemaker, the Philippines is ready to bring our experiences and insights to the Security Council,” he said.
“This is our commitment to inclusive, intergenerational and lasting peace."
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced the country's UNSC bid during the 77th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2022, saying the Philippines' peace-building efforts make it qualified to be part of the UN body.
Elections for the UNSC 2027-2028 term will take place in June 2026 in New York.
The Philippines was previously elected as a non-permanent member of the UNSC in 1957, 1963, 1980-1981, and 2004-2005. (PNA)
