In a landmark achievement for Filipino hospitality, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) has been awarded the prestigious title of the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group by the World Travel Awards (WTA). 

This accolade marks a significant milestone for MHR, a rapidly growing homegrown hotel chain renowned for its heartfelt service and dedication to showcasing Filipino pride.

As the nation’s largest hotel operator, MHR boasts a portfolio of 13 hotels across 7 brands, with more than 8,500 room keys. Beyond its extensive inventory, MHR is celebrated for its unique approach to hospitality, exemplified by its signature brand of service, Sampaguita, which emphasizes warm, Filipino hospitality through the values that the national flower symbolizes.

For the first time in history, The World Travel Awards took place in the Philippines last September 3, 2024. With over three decades of recognizing exemplary travel brands across the globe since 1993, WTA consolidates for travelers top destinations and tourism partners from across sectors and continents voted by the general public. With this unique layer of credibility that reflects the genuine experiences of travelers from around the world WTA is regarded as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence. 

Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of MHR, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We share this award with the 3,000 hoteliers across the Megaworld Hotels & Resorts properties who found a home, a sense of belongingness, and a pride of serving a Filipino brand in us.” 

“This award will further strengthen our brands as we continue to contribute as an industry to the economy of the country and enable MHR to give back to its stakeholders. Our hotels are more than just structures; they are homes where guests experience genuine Filipino hospitality,” she added. 

Albiso also said the Philippines is honored with hosting the WTA. “With this year’s event taking place in the Philippines, is a huge vote of confidence that testifies to the country’s prominence as a travel destination and our proud commitment to deliver exceptional experiences,” she said. 

In addition to this honor, Savoy Hotel Manila, a prominent MHR brand, has won its 4th consecutive recognition as the Philippines’ Leading Airport Hotel. Conveniently situated at Newport City in Pasay, directly across from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, Savoy Hotel Manila provides an ideal retreat for layover and transient guests. It shares its location with Belmont Hotel Manila, which is a favored choice for business travelers and convention attendees due to its proximity to the township’s largest convention facilities.

Another standout in MHR’s portfolio is Grand Westside Hotel, recognized as the Philippines’ largest hotel with 1,530 rooms. 

Opened by President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr., this landmark property is part of Megaworld’s Westside City township in Paranaque’s Entertainment City. 

Right beside its structure is also the Kingsford Hotel with 529 rooms that serves as other options with preferential rates and facilities that’s most ideal for the area. 

The entire township is set to become the “Broadway of Asia” with its world-class dining, gaming, and entertainment offerings, according to Kevin Tan, CEO of Alliance Global Inc.

MHR’s commitment to showcasing the best of the Philippines extends to its diverse destinations. In Manila, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel offer stays in key business and lifestyle districts. Hotel Lucky Chinatown provides a gateway to Manila’s historic Chinatown, Binondo, while Twin Lakes Hotel in the south offers breathtaking views of Taal Lake from its hillside rooms.

Boracay, renowned for its world-class beaches, is home to Megaworld’s Boracay Newcoast, a dynamic township featuring Savoy and Belmont Hotels as well as the Boracay Newcoast Convention Center (BNCC). This vibrant community is perfect for large scale events for at least a thousand people at a time attending meetings, incentives, conventions, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in a tropical paradise.

In Cebu, Mactan Newtown, Megaworld’s provincial city township, features a Savoy and Belmont Hotel. This micro-city integrates residential communities, a preparatory school, office spaces, shopping, dining, and lifestyle facilities, offering a comprehensive experience just 15 minutes from Mactan International Airport.

Iloilo, known as the City of Love, is celebrated for its UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy status and rich heritage. The Richmonde Hotel Iloilo provides modern comforts in a location steeped in history and culture.

For more information on MHR’s offerings and to explore the best of the Philippines, visit www.megaworldhotels.com.

Following the EU Organic Dairy PH campaign last year, the Danish Dairy Board (DDB), an inter-brand organization representing dairies in Denmark, continues its three-year educational initiative to raise awareness about the benefits of European organic dairy and inspire informed consumer choices in the Philippines.

Supported by the European Union, this three-year educational initiative highlights European organic dairies’ steadfast commitment to the high production standards set by the EU.

European organic dairies produce food that respects animals, the environment, and consumers. Free from artificial additives, hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, these products offer essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins B2 and B12, making them a nutritious choice for families worldwide.

Denmark is a leader in the organic dairy industry, pioneering organic production regulations and sharing the benefits of European organic dairy on a global scale.

From pasture to plate

The DDB kicked off the second year of the campaign with the “From Pasture to Plate: Choose Organic European Dairy” launch event on August 13, 2024, at the Grand Hyatt Garden Pavilion.

The event featured tastings, engaging discussions, and educational sessions exploring the production process of organic dairy in Europe, its role in sustainable nutrition, and the positive impacts of organic dairy production.

Jo Sebastian, a registered nutritionist-dietician, highlighted the importance of making nutritious food choices. “Organic dairy, with its numerous nutritional benefits, isn’t merely a trend—it’s a powerful step toward a healthier and more sustainable future for us and our planet,” she said.

Attendees enjoyed a variety of delectable bites made with European organic dairy products and gained valuable insights into food, health, and wellness from Dr. Noel Lumbo of the National Organic Agriculture Board and pediatrician Dr. Joanna Cuayo-Estanislao. Mom influencer Kelly Misa shared her journey of integrating organic choices into her family’s lifestyle, offering both inspiration and practical advice.

Creating more goodness

Over the next several months, consumers across Metro Manila and nearby provinces will have the opportunity to experience the quality and flavor of Danish European organic dairy firsthand. Product sampling activities will take place from August 16, 2024, to January 2025, at leading supermarkets and grocery stores.

In addition, VIP Consumer Classes are scheduled for September 2024, offering fun and educational sessions for participants, including kids and families, to learn about organic dairy from Europe through interactive workshops, games, and tasting sessions.

Mr. Lars Witt Jensen, Senior Marketing Manager at the Danish Dairy Board, expressed enthusiasm for the campaign.

“We are thrilled to bring the message of organic European dairy to the Philippines, especially as more Filipinos seek the best options for their health and the planet. Through our campaign, we hope to empower Filipino consumers with the knowledge and benefits of choosing organic dairy,” he said.

“Our goal is to highlight not only the nutritional value of these products but also their role in promoting sustainable practices and animal welfare. By choosing organic dairy, consumers are making a positive impact on their health, the environment, and the future of food,” Jensen added.

This initiative represents a significant effort by the Danish dairy industry to promote healthier and more sustainable food choices in the Philippines, inviting Filipinos to discover the benefits of European organic dairy products.

In a landmark move toward achieving the global Net Zero Emission goal by 2050, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) of the Philippines has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Green Marine Copenhagen of Denmark, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said recently.

At the Travel Talk 2024 of the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines, Bautista said this strategic partnership “involves the comprehensive training and capacity-building of Filipino mariners in the proper handling of alternative green fuels such as methanol for energy efficient propulsion systems of sea-going vessels.”

“This collaboration signifies the direction toward green transition in the maritime sector,” he added.

Bautista said the agreement between MARINA and Green Marine Copenhagen underscores the Philippines’ commitment to exploring alternative fuels as part of a comprehensive whole-of-government approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

He noted that while the Philippines may not yet have the drastic goals seen in European cities, such as the banning of all diesel vehicles in Paris, Madrid, Athens, and Mexico City, or the phasing out of conventional cars in Norway, France, and the United Kingdom, this collaboration signifies a robust move toward environmental sustainability.

The MOU not only aims to enhance the skills of Filipino mariners but also to ensure the country’s maritime industry stays competitive and environmentally responsible in the global market.

This agreement is part of a broader national effort to explore sustainable energy solutions across various sectors.

Bautista noted that in 2022, a local low-cost airline successfully used a type of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on a commercial flight from Singapore to Manila.

The SAF, made entirely from renewable waste like recycled cooking oil, highlighted the potential for sustainable alternatives in aviation. However, the availability of SAF remains a challenge that the country continues to address.

Additionally, the Philippines is closely monitoring recent advancements in automotive technology, such as the development of a water-fueled internal combustion engine by a reputable Japanese car manufacturer.

This innovation, if proven viable, could revolutionize public transport and prompt a shift in focus from electric vehicles to water-fueled engines.

Just as Marco Polo’s historic travels redefined exploration and opened gateways for cultural exchange, Marco Polo Hotels seeks to reshape the hospitality industry in the Philippines. By embracing new travel trends, the Hong Kong-based hotel chain is set to redefine luxury and service in the Philippines.

Thomas Salg, president of Wharf Hotels and 3 chains namely, Niccolo, Marco Polo and Maqo Hotels which owns and manages Marco Polo Hotels in Hong Kong, China, and the Philippines, notes the following trends of the industry in the country:

1. More face-to-face business conferences.

As the domestic economy in the Philippines begins to recover from the pandemic, there is a renewed focus on face-to-face interactions and relationship-building.

Salg says, “Face-to-face will come again. It’s the need of people, it’s the need of business, it’s the need of relationships.”

And Marco Polo Hotels is poised to capitalize on this resurgence by strengthening its regional presence and fostering deeper connections within the Asia-Pacific region.

2. Growing demand for leisure travel, and the blurring lines between leisure and business travel post pandemic.

“There’s more demand on leisure traveling now. People really start to enjoy their free time. People love to take three, four vacations a year. So there’s a whole other traveling pattern of a new generation coming up,” he says.

This shift necessitates reevaluating traditional hospitality models, blending leisure and business to cater to modern travelers’ multifaceted needs.

3. Expanding into resort hotels.

Salg notes, “We’ve also learned that in the past, we would always say, these are leisure hotels, these are business hotels. We’re realizing that a business traveler wants to also enjoy his stay in a hotel. And a leisure traveler also still needs to check his emails or do a little bit of business on the side.”

This new category of business-leisure travelers seeks destinations that cater to both work and relaxation. They might travel for business but extend their stay for leisure, requiring hotels to offer amenities that serve both purposes. Marco Polo Hotels is responding to this trend by exploring smaller properties and resorts in the Philippines to attract these multi-purpose travelers.

4. Opening hotel-apartment combos.

Marco Polo Hotels is also innovating with mixed-use opportunities, combining hotel services with branded apartments. This model caters to short-term visitors and provides long-term stay options for guests seeking a more permanent residence with hotel-like services. This flexible approach aligns with the evolving preferences of travelers who value a blend of leisure, work, and extended stays.

5. Travel bug cutting across generations.

Travel is no longer defined by age, as people of all generations seek new destinations and experiences.

Salg observes, “We realize that traveling has nothing to do with age anymore. We see a much wider range of people traveling, people seeking new destinations, different experiences while they are traveling.” Today’s travelers are more interested in cultural immersion, local cuisine, and unique experiences rather than just safety and comfort.

Focusing on these trends and providing authentic experiences, Marco Polo Hotels sees its own future to be one of discovery, adaptation, and excellence, mirroring the spirit of its namesake’s legendary travels.

In their presentation, WB economists Dr. Pablo Ariel Acosta and Mr. Limon Rodriguez noted that due to aging populations and declining fertility rates in richer countries, demographic shifts would reshape migration patterns.

Rodriguez listed down examples of GSP programs: the Pilot Project Addressing Labour Shortages Through Innovative Labour Migration Models (PALIM) between Morocco and Belgium, the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), and South Korea’s Employment Permit System (EPS).

Rodriguez said that these GSPs address skill shortages by facilitating legal and systematic routes for labor mobility. He enumerated key features of successful GSPs: addressing skill gaps in both origin and destination countries, funding training from the destination, and adhering to legal migration pathways.

The integration of workers into high-growth sectors hinges on streamlining administrative processes, which Rodriguez said was a recent focal point of discussions within the newly established Department of Migrant Workers.

The WB economists presented the study titled, “The Promise of Global Skills Partnership for Win-Win Migration Outcomes,” highlighting the pivotal role of GSPs in yielding positive outcomes for both labor-sending and -receiving countries.

Acosta and Rodriguez said that the demographic shift emphasizes the urgent need to invest in skills development to meet global labor market demands. They said that adopting GSPs will enable countries to go beyond simple bilateral agreements and focus on serious investments in upskilling the future labor force.

“People are moving primarily to achieve better economic living and opportunities,” Acosta said, noting that regional migration patterns show the economic benefits of migration.

Acosta said the substantial income increases of East Asia migrants to North America and Europe enable them to send remittances back home.

But Acosta cautioned about impending population declines in high-income countries, citing Japan as an example and noting its need for millions of workers in the coming decades. He stressed the crucial role of skilled migration in maintaining economic stability.

The WB economists said the GSP strategy fosters collaboration between origin and destination countries to align migrant skills with labor market demands and share responsibilities for skills development.

The past twelve months was a “year of consequence” for US-Philippine relations, United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said Tuesday night at the celebrations of the 248th US Independence Day and the 70th Philippine-American Friendship Day.

It was a year of “considerable challenges and exceptional achievements,” the ambassador said, noting the agreements made at the historic US-Philippines-Japan trilateral leaders’ summit in April.

There, “the United States reaffirmed our ironclad Alliance commitments that have helped safeguard peace security in the Indo-Pacific for decades. Together with our partners, we remain unwavering in our commitment to freedom of navigation and overflight, and to the importance of respecting the sovereign rights of states within their exclusive economic zones consistent with international law,” Ambassador Carlson said.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Teresa Lazaro echoed these sentiments and noted the significant progress in strengthening defense capabilities and ensuring regional stability brought by this partnership.

“Together, we remember the United States Declaration of Independence and honor its fundamental principles of freedom, equality, democracy, and self-determination. These same tenets shared by the Philippines and many other like-minded countries are as consequential to the founding of our United Nations as they are to the preservation of the rules-based international order today,” Undersecretary Lazaro said.

“We recognize the pivotal role of our alliance in strengthening our own defense capabilities and safeguarding peace and security in the Indo-Pacific. More so now in the face of challenges to international law. We thus welcome the expansion of our cooperation to include our other like-minded partners which allows us to advance our shared priorities by maximizing complementarities in our capabilities and resources,” Undersecretary Lazaro added.

Ambassador Carlson noted the two countries’ booming commercial and economic ties, exemplified by the announcement of the Luzon Economic Corridor and the first US Presidential Trade and Investment Mission, which resulted in $1 billion in investments and new partnerships.

Undersecretary Lazaro also pointed to the launch of the Luzon Economic Corridor as a major deliverable of the Trilateral Summit. This initiative, part of the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, aims to accelerate economic growth, support connectivity, and ensure food and economic security in the Philippines.

The high-ranking Philippine diplomat also mentioned upcoming strategic dialogues, including the Two-Plus-Two meeting with Foreign and Defense Ministers, and the inaugural Cyber and Democracy Dialogues, which reflect the increasing scope and frequency of US-Philippine engagement.

Ambassador Carlson thanked donors, embassy teams, hotel staff, and other workers who made the evening’s celebration possible. Aside from food and drinks, there was music from Memphis blues, New York hip-hop, Detroit Motown, Nashville country, and New Orleans jazz; some were rendered by Filipino artists led by Jed Madela.

“We are here tonight to celebrate our strong and enduring people-to-people ties, our economic cooperation as partners in prosperity, and our security and defense collaboration as treaty allies committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific,” the ambassador said.

Ambassador Carlson and Undersecretary Lazaro expressed gratitude to those who have contributed to US-Philippine relations.

In a toast to the shared July 4 holidays, Carlson and Lazaro celebrated the enduring partnership between the United States and the Philippines, expressing optimism for a safer, brighter, and more prosperous future for both nations.

The Royal Thai Embassy in the Philippines hosted a grand celebration to mark the 75th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two countries, underscoring the deep and enduring friendship between the two nations.

The event, graced by prominent figures from both countries, was a testament to the strong bilateral ties and multifaceted cooperation that have flourished over the decades.

Held at the Dusit Hotel, the evening’s festivities were attended by key dignitaries led by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, and other notable officials and members of the diplomatic corps.

The celebration featured a dazzling display of cultural performances, culinary delights, and artistic exhibitions that highlighted the rich heritage and vibrant traditions of both Thailand and the Philippines.

In his welcoming speech, Thai Ambassador to the Philippines Tull Traisorat emphasized the robust cooperation between the two countries across various sectors.

He highlighted the significant achievements in political, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions, pointing out regular high-level exchanges, thriving two-way trade and investments, and collaborative initiatives in education, tourism, sports, and culture.

“Our collaboration extends beyond bilateral sphere, thriving in regional fora like ASEAN and on the global arena within the United Nations framework,” Ambassador Traisorat said.

“These multifaceted cooperation and partnership both at bilateral and multilateral levels have been instrumental in addressing common challenges, advancing our shared values and interests, and promoting peace, prosperity and development of our countries, our region, and beyond,” he added.

A whole-of-society approach to celebrations

Noting the Royal Thai Embassy’s “whole-of-society” approach in commemorating this historic milestone, Ambassador Traisorat said a series of celebratory activities were organized throughout the year, engaging various stakeholders from both nations.

Notable events included the Thailand-Philippines Street Food Festival, a symposium on multilateral cooperation in education, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between leading teacher universities from both countries.

Upcoming events such as a symposium on sustainability, a symphony orchestra concert, and a film festival further exemplify the deep-rooted partnership and shared aspirations.

The evening’s highlight was a special reception that showcased the collaborative efforts of the Thai business community, government agencies, and cultural organizations.

The event featured a unique collection of Thai and Filipino fabrics by designer Paul Cabral, cultural performances orchestrated by the Department of Tourism, and an impressive demonstration of Muay Thai and also Arnis by the Philippine Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand also contributed to the vibrant Thai performances, while an array of authentic Thai cuisine delighted the guests.

Ambassador Traisorat eloquently encapsulated the spirit of the occasion with the symbolic phrase “Amazing Love,” representing the unity and mutual affection between Thailand and the Philippines.

He offered a toast to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., celebrating the enduring friendship and committed partnership between the two nations.

A delegation of three Japanese defense lawmakers on Friday underscored the importance of deepening defense cooperation between Japan and the Philippines, noting the shared experience of harassment from China in contested waters.

At a press conference held in Hotel Okura Manila, Onodera Itsunori, a prominent member of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and former Minister of Defense, commended Filipino Navy personnel against China’s escalated aggression in the West Philippine Sea conflict.

“While we are very concerned about China’s behavior, we would like to commend the bravery of the Philippine Navy personnel involved in the provisioning. I would also like to extend my sympathy to the personnel affected by the incident,” Itsunori said referring to the June 17 incident where some Navy personnel were injured following an attack by Chinese coast guard personnel.

Itsunori visited the country with fellow LDP parliamentarians Wada Yoshiaki, who was former senior adviser to the Minister of Defense, and Matsukawa Rui, who was former parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense.

The delegation had a series of high-level meetings with National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, and Secretary of National Defense Gilbert Teodoro. Their talks highlighted the strategic defense partnership between the two countries, particularly through the transfer and collaboration on defense equipment.

Itsunori noted the urgency of enhancing the Philippines’ air defense capabilities and reaffirmed the importance of strengthening ties between the Philippine Armed Forces and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces.

“We recognize the need to further deepen security and defense cooperation between our two countries,” Itsunori said. “The challenges in the West Philippine Sea are legitimate concerns for the international community, impacting regional peace and stability.”

The forthcoming Japan-Philippines 2-plus-2 meeting of defense and foreign chiefs, scheduled for July 8, is expected to further solidify these defense agreements. Itsunori said he is optimistic that the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) would see rapid progress, enhancing collaborative defense efforts and expediting defense equipment transfers.

Yoshiaki echoed Itsunori’s sentiments, drawing parallels between the maritime disputes faced by the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea and Japan’s experiences with China in the Senkaku Islands. “We are in the same boat,” he said, emphasizing the shared threats and the need for a united stance against unilateral changes to the status quo in the region.

The delegation’s visit also included discussions about further cooperation at key military bases, including Clark Airbase, Basa Airbase, and Subic Bay Navy Base. These talks focused on recent incidents in the region and Japan’s commitment to supporting the Philippine Navy, particularly in light of China’s increasingly aggressive actions.

Itsunori noted Japan’s policy changes, which now allow for the joint development and manufacturing of defense equipment with other countries. This policy shift is seen as a significant step toward enhancing defense collaborations and supporting the modernization of the Philippine Armed Forces under Horizon No. 3.

The Philippines is embarking on an ambitious Horizon No. 3 military modernization initiative amid the escalating territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Despite financial constraints, the country aims to bolster its defense capabilities through strategic acquisitions.

“Promoting the transfer of defense equipment would benefit our country’s interest in the Indo-Pacific region,” Itsunori said. “We are eager to promote various defense collaborations by working with the governments of both countries.”

The Japanese delegation expressed a strong message of solidarity and commitment.

Rui emphasized the natural partnership between Japan and the Philippines, driven by shared threats and mutual respect. “A strong Philippines, through cooperation with Japan, benefits not only our two countries but also the region as a whole,” she said.

Earlier, the three Japanese lawmakers visited the Wallace Air Station, where Japan delivered its first radar system to the Philippines.

Following the injury of Filipino soldiers in China’s latest aggression in the West Philippine Sea, the United Kingdom has reiterated its support of Philippine sovereignty and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

At the King’s Birthday celebration on Tuesday, Ambassador Laure Beaufils said: “We as the UK continue to stand with the Philippines in support of its sovereignty. And today, as ever we do, emphasizing the critical importance of international law, and in particular UNCLOS as the governing framework for all the activities that people should participate in, and condemning actions that undermine navigational freedoms, challenge international law, and do so.”

The ambassador also drew parallels between the recent Philippine Independence Day celebration and the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings, where King Charles III spoke.

King Charles III “spoke of the sacrifices made by previous generations for our liberty and reminded us that free nations must come together to oppose tyranny…I was struck by the parallels in language and values. Be it in the Philippines or in the UK, the bravery and sacrifice of our fallen heroes resonates today as much as they did in the past. And we cherish our independence, freedom, and sovereignty today as much as we did then,” she said.

The ambassador took the occasion to introduce the new monarch to Filipinos including his advocacy for the environment.

“The King is steeped in experience and public service—a modern King with a strong vision and a passion for the youth, community, diversity, the environment, multi-religious, multi-cultural communities, and indeed the multicultural and multi-religious consequences,” Ambassador Beaufils said.

“The King’s most well-known passion, of course, is that of environmental sustainability. He was advocating concepts such as the circular economy and natural capital years before they captured the public’s imagination. He remained the global champion for environmental sustainability across the world,” she added.

The ambassador was most applauded when she welcomed the guests to the reception in Tagalog.

“Natutuwa akong tanggapin kayo dito ngayong gabi. Ito ay isang napakahalagang okasyon para sa amin. Natutuwa akong ipagdiwang ang kaarawan ng aming hari kasama ang aming mga Pinoy na kaibigan,” she said.

Ambassador Beaufils also explained why there is a June 18 birthday celebration for the British king when his actual birthday falls on November 14.

“This year we are going back to tradition, a tradition started by George II in 1748, upholding the monarch’s official birthday in June. With a November birthday being too cold for a celebratory parade in London, he tied his celebrations with the annual Trooping the Colour military parade in June. And so it is again, 276 years later. Today we are here to honour our King,” she said.

George II was also a November baby. He was born on November 9, 1683.

Ukraine’s First Deputy Foreign Minister H.E. Andrii Sybiha has explained why the Philippines’ participation in the upcoming Global Peace Summit is vital, emphasizing the significant role the country plays in regional and global security.

“President Zelenskyy came here also because of the importance of your country, your voice, and your support,” the Foreign Minister said in an exclusive interview with THEPHILBIZNEWS. “You are a very important country in the region. Your positive decision and attitude encourage other ASEAN countries.”

Zelenskyy’s visit to the Philippines, he noted, was also to personally meet with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and strengthen the ties between the two nations. “We are like-minded countries. We share the same values and challenges. This provides a strong foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation,” Sybiha said.

The Global Peace Summit, based on Zelenskyy’s ten-point peace formula, is gaining international attention. “This is a global event, and we are thankful for our partners for supporting this idea. It is important to get as many countries as possible involved to achieve a sustainable, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine,” the deputy foreign minister said.

Sybiha highlighted the significant international support Ukraine has received. “One hundred forty-three countries voted to support the United Nations resolution condemning Russia’s aggression. Eighty-two countries participated at the level of national security advisors in Davos. Currently, we have confirmations from 104 countries for the Global Peace Summit,” he said.

The deputy foreign minister expressed optimism that Ukraine will muster more participants in the Global Peace Summit. “We continue our efforts to engage more countries, providing additional arguments why it is important for them. This war against Ukraine is not only about Ukraine. It’s about regional security, global security, and the restoration of world order based on international law,” he said.

During his visit to Manila, the high-ranking diplomat from Ukraine met with ambassadors from various countries to discuss strategies to inspire more participation from the region. “We see a growing understanding of the importance of supporting the principles of international law and the UN Charter,” he said.

Addressing the misinformation spread by Russia, Sybiha said, “This is not a crisis; it is a true war against Ukraine and Russian aggression. The only way to achieve peace is through the Ukrainian peace formula, the Zelenskyy peace formula. War is on our territory, and we know best how to achieve peace.”

Sybiha also welcomed potential contributions from China. “We are interested in China’s participation in this global peace summit. They could significantly influence Russia and contribute to achieving peace. Many principles expressed by China align with the Zelenskyy peace formula,” he said.

The deputy foreign minister also announced the participation of several influential countries. “Qatar is joining the summit. Turkey, India, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and many others have confirmed their participation. We are working hard to get more on board,” he said.

In a message to the Filipino people, the Foreign Minister expressed gratitude. “We are thankful for your support of our country. I wish peace and prosperity for the Philippines. We deserve to have stronger relations between Ukraine and the Philippines.”

With the Global Peace Summit approaching, Ukraine continues to rally international support, highlighting the critical role that countries like the Philippines play in the pursuit of global stability and peace.

To watch the full interview, here is the link: https://youtu.be/VK_R3i2bDX4