United States President Donald Trump offers the Philippines a seat in the U.S.-initiated Board of Peace as part of Washington’s broader push to build a multinational platform focused on global peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery. The invitation, conveyed through a personal letter from the U.S. President to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is now under review by Philippine officials, with Manila weighing what form of participation would be feasible.
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PH Reviews Invitation, Possible Commitments
Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez confirmed that the proposal is being carefully assessed, noting that the government is studying the level and type of commitment expected from prospective members.
“We're looking at what kind of commitment is being asked of us. And of course, we have to find out how we can be of help,” Romualdez explained in an interview on the sidelines of an event marking 80 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the US.
He stressed that the Philippines has consistently supported international peace efforts and remains open to taking part if its contribution can be meaningful.
“We've always been for finding a way to contribute in any kind of peace effort. So, if this is something that the Philippines can be part of, then very likely we'll accept the invitation,” the envoy added.
According to Romualdez, no specific deadline has been imposed for Manila’s response, but he indicated that a decision could be relayed within the next couple of weeks as consultations continue among Philippine institutions, including the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Funding Limits, Non-Monetary Role Considered
The ambassador also addressed reports that countries seeking permanent membership in the board would need to contribute $1 billion, saying this financial requirement may be beyond the Philippines’ capacity at present.
“The $1 billion is basically for those who want to be permanent members,” Romualdez said.
He noted that instead of a large monetary pledge, the Philippines may explore non-financial contributions, such as providing personnel or technical expertise.
“Maybe we can contribute our human resources or something along those lines. But I don't think we can [afford it],” he said.
The Board of Peace was launched at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland on Jan. 22 and is being presented as a key component of a U.S.-led peace plan focused initially on ending conflict in Gaza and supporting reconstruction efforts in the area. Over time, it is envisioned to evolve into a broader forum for mediating global conflicts, with functions similar to those of the United Nations.
At present, Indonesia and Vietnam are the only Southeast Asian countries that have joined the body, placing the Philippines in a position to potentially expand the region’s representation if it accepts the invitation.
Participation in such an international peace initiative could translate into a stronger diplomatic voice for the country and new opportunities for Filipino professionals to contribute to global humanitarian and peacekeeping missions. It also signals the Philippines’ continued role as an active partner in shaping international efforts toward stability and conflict resolution.
