Mr. Chair,

1. We congratulate you on your assumption as Chair of the First Committee. We assure you and the Bureau of our support. We align ourselves with the statements of the Non-Aligned Movement and ASEAN.
2. Amid a world facing unprecedented challenges, the imperative for robust multilateralism is paramount, highlighting the essential work of the First Committee. This committee’s commitment to disarmament is crucial in navigating today’s complex and dynamic threats.

On Nuclear Disarmament and Other WMD:

3. Dangerous nuclear rhetoric and the modernization of nuclear arsenals persist. These developments undermine our shared aspiration for a world free of nuclear weapons. We must abandon the concept of deterrence and steadfastly work towards decreasing the global stockpile of nuclear weapons.
4. No goal can justify using weapons that cause total and indiscriminate destruction. These weapons pose a major risk to everyone, especially if accessed by non-state actors and terrorists. Their elimination is the only guarantee to shield us from devastation.
5. We have ratified the TPNW, a treaty that aligns with our commitment to humanitarian principles and reinforces Article VI of the NPT. We emphasize the complementary nature of the TPNW and the NPT.
6. The NPT remains the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. It is fundamental to a rules-based international order that safeguards the security of nations. We call upon all States Parties to renew their commitments to the Treaty, particularly Article VI, and work toward a meaningful consensual outcome document for the 11th NPT Review Conference in 2026.
7. We urge the remaining Annex II States to ratify the CTBT without further delay.
8. The Philippines remains committed to the full implementation of the CWC and the BWC.

On Conventional Weapons:

9. Comprehensive norms and regulations for conventional weapons are essential. We ratified the Arms Trade Treaty and the CCW Protocol V last year, making us one of the few countries that are States Parties to all humanitarian disarmament conventions.
10. Our engagement with the Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW), Anti-Personnel Landmines Convention, and Cluster Munitions Convention is guided by our core principles of victim-centricity and bolstering the capacities of affected countries. Additionally, we call for collaborative action to counter the threat posed by improvised explosive devices.
11. As technology advances, we must ensure our global governance regime remains adaptable. We call for legal rules to prevent the weaponization of artificial intelligence and responsible use of emerging technologies. The Philippines, in partnership with like-minded states, has submitted a draft Protocol VI of the CCW to regulate autonomous weapon systems. We are also hosting an Indo-Pacific meeting on this issue in December.
12. As the Philippines’ was Chair of the BMS8 last year, we strongly support the establishment of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Fellowship Programme and the open-ended technical expert group preceding the 4th Review Conference next year. We highlight responsible disposal of SALW surplus and the inclusion of gender perspectives in the BMS8 outcome document.

On Disarmament Aspects of Outer Space:

13. We reaffirm our commitment to a legally binding instrument to prevent an arms race in outer space. Strengthening outer space security is paramount. Clarifying norms of responsible behavior in outer space is crucial.
14. The GGE on Further Practical Measures on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) will convene in Geneva in 2023 and 2024 under the General Assembly's auspices. The representative from the Philippines will actively contribute to the GGE's work.
15. We welcome the establishment of the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) pursuant to General Assembly Resolution 76/231. This process marks a vital step towards robust structures for outer space security.
16. We advocate peaceful uses of outer space, calling for the elaboration of the principle of “due regard” and enhanced state responsibility to mitigate space threats, including launch debris, ensuring harmonious and cooperative space activities.
17. We emphasize the importance of UN partnerships to ensure that new technologies are not weaponized or misused. These technologies should not undermine democracy, violate international humanitarian law, exploit vulnerabilities, or infringe on human rights and dignity.

Other Disarmament Measures and International Security:

18. The multilateral disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control regime are integral to a rules-based international order that has preserved global peace and stability. Expert-driven processes have shaped its credibility.
19. Our commitment to a Strategic Trade Management framework underscores our belief that export control regimes should not hinder international cooperation for peaceful purposes while upholding non-proliferation obligations.
20. The prevalence of technology necessitates discussions on rules, norms, and responsible behavior in cyberspace. We applaud the progress achieved by the OEWG under Resolution 75/240 and support the incremental approach taken by its Chair.

Regional Disarmament

21. In the Asia Pacific, we reaffirm our commitment to the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon Free Zone Treaty or SEANWFZ and the NPT. We welcome ASEAN Member States' efforts to engage with nuclear-weapon states and resolve outstanding issues in line with SEANWFZ objectives. We are dedicated to implementing the Plan of Action for 2023- 2027, emphasizing concrete actions.

Disarmament Machinery:

22. Despite facing challenges, we recognize the UN Disarmament Commission’s (UNDC) resumed sessions in 2022 and its adoption of recommendations for outer space activities. Yet, the failure to agree on nuclear disarmament recommendations this year should prompt us to do better. We urge UN Member States, particularly the NWS, to exhibit political will and flexibility for consensus as we approach the new cycle starting next year.
23. We join the call for the Conference on Disarmament to agree on a balanced and comprehensive program of work. Our active participation will continue, with a focus on nuclear risk reduction, fissile material cut-off, negative security assurances, and preventing an arms race in outer space. We remain committed to coordinating the Informal Group of Observer States (IGOS) to the CD and pursuing Philippine membership in the CD.
24. In closing, the Philippines firmly emphasizes our shared global responsibility to safeguard a secure and stable future through a commitment to disarmament, global security and the prevention of conflicts. We call for continuous, open dialogue and building trust and confidence among States to reinforce mutual understanding that will lead us towards enduring peace and security.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.