Del Rosario, UN exec lead celebration of world body’s anniversary

MANILA, Philippines – Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and United Nations Resident Coordinator Ola Almgren ceremonially switched on the light of the SM Mall of Asia Globe in UN blue to mark the 70th anniversary of the world body. 

The Philippines is first country in the world to light up a famous landmark in UN blue last Friday as part of the global “Turn the World UN Blue” campaign, to be followed by landmark structures around the world.

The SM Mall of Asia Globe also projected 17 global goals icons with messages. 

“Strong UN. Better World.” is the global theme of the UN’s 70th anniversary on Oct. 24. The UN Philippines will hold a series of activities to celebrate seven decades of partnership.

“The year 2015 is momentous for the United Nations. The development agenda for the coming 15 years has just been agreed upon by member states, including the Philippines, the 2030 Agenda encapsulated in the shape of Sustainable Development Goals or the Global Goals,” Almgren said in his welcome remarks at the joint event of the Department of Foreign Affairs and UN held at the SM Mall of Asia. 

Throughout the seven decades, the UN has made achievements that have made a difference in the lives of millions of people: seeking peaceful resolution of disputes; being a constant advocate for human rights and the rule of law; supporting development; and responding to humanitarian crises.

“The Philippines has been a committed partner in all of these achievements.  As one of 50 original signatory countries to the United Nations Charter in San Francisco on June 26, 70 years ago, the Philippines holds a special and a proud place in the history of the United Nations. The UN, together with the government and people of the Philippines, will continue to achieve more through our strong partnership,” Almgren said.

“We celebrate the first seven decades of the UN and its invaluable contributions to world peace, humanitarianism and development and its dynamic partnership with the Philippines,” Del Rosario said.

The event was attended by senior officials of the government and the UN, diplomats and dignitaries.