In a significant diplomatic development, former US President Donald Trump has extended a formal invitation to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to participate in the international ‘Board of Peace’ initiative for Gaza reconstruction. The invitation was delivered via personal correspondence earlier this year, as confirmed by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez.
The Marcos administration is currently evaluating the specific commitments required for participation, with Ambassador Romualdez emphasizing Manila’s historical support for peace-building initiatives worldwide. “We’ve always been for finding a way to contribute to any kind of peace effort,” Romualdez stated during the launch ceremony for the 80th US-Philippines anniversary commemorative logo in Pasay City.
This invitation forms part of Trump’s broader international outreach, with over 60 nations reportedly receiving similar requests to join the entity first proposed in September 2025 as part of his 20-point roadmap to resolve the Gaza conflict. The Board of Peace is designed to provide strategic supervision and coordinate international resources for Gaza’s rehabilitation.
While no definitive response timeline has been established, Philippine officials indicate a decision is expected within the coming weeks. Ambassador Romualdez clarified that financial contributions—reportedly set at $1 billion for permanent members—would not be required from Manila, suggesting instead potential contributions through human resources or technical expertise.
Notably within Southeast Asia, only Indonesia and Vietnam have currently committed to participation in the international initiative. The Philippine government’s anticipated acceptance would mark another significant step in the country’s evolving foreign policy approach under the Marcos administration.