On this day, December 7, 1956, a significant chapter unfolded in Filipino history as the Philippines secured a coveted seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

The eleven-nation body, entrusted with the crucial responsibility of maintaining international peace and security, welcomed the Philippines into its ranks.

The preceding year had witnessed a diplomatic stalemate between the Philippines and Yugoslavia in the UNSC election. In an unprecedented turn of events, an impromptu lottery determined Yugoslavia’s temporary accession to the seat, with an understanding that it would yield to the Philippines after a year of the two-year term. However, attempts by the Soviet bloc to disrupt this arrangement were thwarted, and a secret ballot ensued, resulting in a decisive victory for the Philippines with 51 votes to Yugoslavia’s 20.

President Magsaysay in designating Ambassador Romulo, stated in his message to him:

“… Realizing the scope of our new responsibility, I am hereby designating you as the Philippines’ representative to the Security Council for the full one-year term beginning January 1, 1957. I have done this in my firm belief that as former President of the General Assembly, you can best represent the Philippines in that body …”

In response to this triumph, President Ramon Magsaysay swiftly appointed Ambassador Carlos P. Romulo as the Philippine representative to the UNSC. Romulo, who had previously served as the Philippine Ambassador to the United States, was no stranger to international diplomacy. His extensive experience included representing the Philippines at the founding conference of the United Nations in San Francisco in 1945 and presiding over the General Assembly in 1949 to 1950.

The Philippines’ tenure on the UNSC was marked by subsequent elections in 1963, 1980-1981, and 2004-2005. Each term underscored the nation’s commitment to playing a pivotal role in addressing global challenges and contributing to the maintenance of international peace and security.

The United Nations Security Council, established on January 17, 1946, stands as one of the six principal organs of the United Nations. Endowed with the authority to issue binding resolutions to member states, the UNSC holds sway over critical matters such as the establishment of peacekeeping operations, the imposition of international sanctions, and the authorization of military actions.

As we commemorate this historical milestone, it is essential to reflect on the enduring significance of the Philippines’ role within the UNSC and its ongoing commitment to fostering global harmony.

American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Volume 32, Number 12, December 1956.

Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Nations

http://www.un.int/philippines/
http://www.un.int

(Jr Amigo/ai/mnm)