PBBM to skip UNGA 79

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, Philippine News Agency

Marcos also skipped the 78th session of the UNGA last year and was represented by Manalo. (PCO file photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will not attend the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) held in New York City on Sept. 10 to 24, Malacañang announced Thursday.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo will instead lead the Philippine delegation to the UNGA on Marcos’ behalf, Communications Secretary Cesar Chavez said in a statement.

“The President will not be attending the UN General Assembly. Instead, he will be ably represented by Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo who will articulate the country’s responses to global challenges which we assert should be resolved within the framework of peace and cooperation enshrined in the UN Charter,” Chavez said.

Marcos also skipped the 78th session of the UNGA last year and was represented by Manalo.

The first day of the high-level UNGA General Debate is set for Sept. 24.

More than 100 world leaders, as well as thousands of diplomats and advocates, are expected to deliver statements and tackle global challenges in the UNGA79.

World leaders would also participate in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations”.