Bernie Anabo Jr.
MANILA — This was not just a courtesy call. It was a statement.
As Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III welcomed the Delegation from the European Parliament Committee on International Trade to the House of Representatives, one voice stood out with clarity and conviction — House Minority Leader Cong. Atty. Marcelino C. Libanan.
And he did not mince words.
Libanan made it clear: the Philippines is not begging at the global table — it is negotiating from strength.
With European Parliament representatives in the room, alongside EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro, the message from the Minority Leader was firm — trade must translate into tangible gains for Filipinos. Not abstract diplomacy. Not photo opportunities. Real jobs. Real investments. Real protection for local industries.
For Lebanon, international trade is not just about numbers on paper. It is about farmers who need fair access to markets. It is about MSMEs fighting to survive global competition. It is about Filipino workers who deserve opportunities that match global standards.
“This engagement must produce results,” allies of Libanan said after the meeting. “The Filipino people expect nothing less.”
The European Union remains one of the Philippines’ largest trading partners. Billions in exports. Billions in imports. Strategic cooperation in sustainability, green energy, and development assistance. But Libanan’s position is unmistakable — partnerships must be balanced and mutually beneficial.
No one-sided deals.
No silent compromises.
No surrender of national interest.
In a time of economic uncertainty, global supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tension, the Philippines must move smart — and move strong. Libanan has consistently pushed for policies that fortify the country’s economic backbone while ensuring that globalization does not crush local enterprise.
Observers noted that his presence during the high-level engagement underscored the Minority’s active role in shaping foreign economic policy — not as bystanders, but as watchdogs and policy drivers.
The visit from the European Parliament Committee on International Trade signals expanding opportunities — including potential advancements in trade preferences, investment flows, and sustainability partnerships.
But Lebanon’s stance remains clear:
Dialogue must deliver.
Cooperation must convert to concrete benefits.
And every agreement must uplift the Filipino people first.
As the House opened its doors to Europe, one thing became evident — the Minority Leader is not merely observing global negotiations.
He is influencing them.
And if the Philippines is to strengthen its place in the international arena, it will be with leaders who are ready to speak boldly, negotiate fiercely, and defend the national interest without apology.
In the evolving chessboard of global trade, Cong. Atty. Marcelino C. Libanan is making sure the Philippines is not just a player —
—but a contender.
