Philippine Roundup: VP Duterte concludes diplomatic visit, ties with Italy, bid for UN security council seat

Philippine Vice President Duterte concludes diplomatic visit to Malaysia

Vice President Sara Duterte has returned to the Philippines after a diplomatic visit to Malaysia, where she engaged with officials to strengthen bilateral relations. The discussions focused on trade, security, and cultural exchange, underscoring efforts to deepen cooperation between the two Southeast Asian nations. The visit reaffirms the Philippines' commitment to regional stability and economic collaboration.

Philippine envoy in Pakistan hopes for stronger future cooperation

Philippine Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez, has emphasised the increasing interaction between the citizens of both countries and expressed optimism about enhanced bilateral cooperation. Speaking as the chief guest at the 127th Philippine National Day celebration hosted by Honorary Consul General Dr. Imran Yousuf in Karachi, Ambassador Fernandez noted the longstanding ties between the two nations in trade, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

Philippines renews bid for UN Security Council seat

The Philippines has renewed its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo highlighting the country's record as a "pathfinder and peacemaker." Speaking at the Philippine Independence Day celebration in New York, attended by over 300 diplomats and guests, Manalo emphasised the country's historic role as Asia’s first republic and its commitment to equality among nations, multilateralism, and global peace.

Philippines deepens ties with Italy

The Philippines is strengthening its relationship with Italy as part of broader efforts to enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, according to Philippine Ambassador to Italy Nathaniel Imperial. On the occasion of the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration in Rome, Ambassador Imperial highlighted the progress in bilateral relations, citing Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo’s official visit to Italy last year at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. The ambassador emphasised growing collaboration in key areas such as defence, trade, investment, tourism, and labour.

Philippines boosts investor support to strengthen economic appeal

The Philippines is stepping up efforts to attract more local and foreign investment, with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) directed to prioritise services for investors in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s economic agenda. BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. announced that all BIR offices have been instructed to assist and prioritise investors, particularly those involved in strategic investments under the Investment Facilitation Network.