Manila urged to raise China concerns at UN General Assembly this month

THE PHILIPPINES should seize the opportunity to raise its concerns over Chinese actions in the South China Sea during the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York later this month, analysts said, as Beijing presses ahead with measures that undermine Manila’s claims in the contested waters.

- By Adrian H. Halili

“The Philippines, through the President, may rally support in line with his participation in the United Nations General Assembly later this month,” Josue Raphael J. Cortez, a diplomacy instructor at De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, said in a Facebook Messenger chat.

Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. will not attend the UN General Assembly in New York next week since he plans to focus on local issues, the Palace said on Monday.

“The President has delegated his engagements at the UN General Assembly to the secretary of Foreign Affairs to allow him to focus on local issues,” Communications Secretary Dave M. Gomez told reporters ina Viber chat.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier said it is studying the possibility of filing a resolution at the assembly that would tackle Chinese activities in the South China Sea.

“This attendance may also serve as an avenue for the President to highlight the importance of adhering to international norms and standards, as well as to international agreements and covenants,” Mr. Cortez added.