Thank you, Mr. Chair.

The Philippines aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uganda on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and by Singapore, on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), on agenda item 134. Revised estimates relating to the Funding of the Resident Coordinator System at the first part of the resumed 78th session of the Fifth Committee.

Our delegation also expresses appreciation to Under-Secretary-General Catherine Pollard for introducing the report of the Secretary General, and the representative of the ACABQ, for introducing their respective reports.

Following the closed briefing on 21 March 2024, our delegation underscores and reinforces the following points, in our national capacity:

1. The Philippines agrees that the establishment of a Reinvigorated Resident Coordinator System (RCS) stands as a cornerstone of the Secretary General’s (SG) development reforms. The RCS remains pivotal in harmonizing United Nations (UN) efforts at the national level towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

2. We acknowledge the Secretary General’s efforts to bolster the RC system’s independence and capacity to advance progress, particularly in countries where the system operates.

3. Mr. Chair, we regrettably note that in recent years, significant funding challenges have impeded the effective implementation of the RCS, and the system’s existing funding model reportedly is no longer fit for purpose.

4. In this context, we acknowledge the current report presented by the secretariat in A/78/753, underscoring the urgent need to re-evaluate the funding arrangement to substantially support the RCS.

5. Given the complexity and urgency of this proposal, our delegation agrees that a careful examination of the proposals with relevant stakeholders is essential, along with the belief that ongoing deliberations in the second committee offer a comprehensive picture on the needs to be addressed and a holistic approach across the development pillar.

6. We see merit in devising an effective oversight mechanisms to underpin the proposed financing of the RCS through the revised estimates relating to the programme budget for 2024 and the regular budget thereafter. We look forward to receiving more detailed information on this matter during the course of the discussions.

7. Mr. Chair, allow us to express and reiterate our support for the Secretary General’s initiatives and his efforts to strengthen the RCS, in alignment with Philippine development priorities and strategies, and in recognition of the key role of the RCS in the effective implementation of the Philippines’ UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNDSDCF) 2024-2028.

8. Our collaboration with the Resident Coordinator on the UNSDCF presents a potential model for reforms that deepen and elevate partnerships between Member States and the RCS.

9. As one of the pioneering frameworks under the reformed UN development system, our joint efforts have showcased the prospect for impactful programs that embody co-ownership, transparency, and accountability.

10. In conclusion, we believe that strengthening the RCS must be pursued in the spirit of transparency and accountability that underpins UN reforms towards implementing projects and activities formulated in close coordination with Member States, leveraging national expertise and best practices, and subjecting the system to collaborative review and monitoring. We, therefore, look forward to engaging in fruitful discussions on this topic.

Thank you, Mr. Chair