President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has canceled his scheduled trip to New York this week for the 80th United Nations General Assembly, saying he will instead focus on pressing domestic issues.
Malacañang announced that Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro will represent the Philippines in his place.
The decision comes as outrage grows over alleged anomalies in ₱17 billion worth of government flood control projects.
Several groups are set to stage a protest on Sept. 21 to denounce corruption linked to these projects.
Marcos, while encouraging the public to voice their concerns, appealed for demonstrations to remain peaceful.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 16, 2025
