Second round of voting for the Asia-Pacific about to begin.

Meeting suspended for 20 minutes. Member states are only electing the non-permanent seat for the Asia-Pacific Group.

Second round of voting (128 votes for a 2/3 majority)

Philippines - 81
Kyrgyzstan - 110

Third round of voting (128 votes for a 2/3 majority):

Philippines - 68
Kyrgyzstan - 123

NEWS UPDATE —

After four rounds, Kyrgyzstan secures its FIRST-ever term in the UN Security Council.

Philippines - 49
Kyrgyzstan - 142

NEWS UPDATE: Statement of Secretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa Lazaro

The Philippines respects the decision of the member states of the United Nations and extends its congratulations to the Kyrgyz Republic following today’s election for the non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council.

We thank the international community for the support and goodwill extended to the Philippines throughout our candidacy. Our campaign was anchored on our longstanding commitment to peace, dialogue, international law, and cooperation among nations. These remain principles that the Philippines will continue to uphold and advance in the global community.

The Philippines remains committed to working with all nations in pursuing peace, stability, sustainable development, and a rules-based international order.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.

LOSING THE UN SC BID @here

A lot of observers and even Filipino officials and diplomats themselves were expecting a tight race for the Asia-Pacific seat in the UN SC. Kyrgyzstan had never been a member of the powerful Security Council and had mounted a formidable campaign as well. But what was surprising to many, perhaps, was the rather dismal count in the first round — 85 votes, when the Philippines had gotten pledges (written, verbal) from over 100++ member states. It will be difficult to find out who actually reneged on those pledges. Besides, they are non-binding.

The question I've been asking UN veterans and observers are these: Is the upset just a part of the dynamics of an institution like the UN? And what does it say, if anything about — changes in the global geopolitical environment, the current dynamics of the UN, or how the world sees the Philippines?

Chinese embassy in Manila issues a barely veiled threat of possible trade sanctions in Manila, in response to law enforcement operations against Chinese nationals in the Philippines. @here

The embassy, in a release to media, said "China will take all necessary measures to resolutely safeguard the safety and lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens and institutions in the Philippines.." The short answer was preceded by a lengthy question on supposed countermeasures against the Philippines over "frequent apprehension and detention of Chinese nationals by the Philippine military and law enforcement authorities recently" and purported sanctions against Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., among others.

Military distances itself from former-soldiers-turned-security in flood control probe @here

The AFP's Public Affairs Office chief, in a message to media, says he "respectfully request[s] accuracy in referring to the individuals involved in the ongoing Senate proceedings."

The AFP comms chief says: "While some reports have collectively described them as 'Marines' or 'Ex-Marines,' it is important to note that they were no longer in active military service at the time of the acts and allegations being discussed. These were undertaken in their private capacities and not on behalf of the Armed Forces of the Philippines."

"It should also be clarified that not all of the individuals concerned are former members of the Philippine Marine Corps. As such, the use of the term 'Marines' may unintentionally suggest institutional involvement by the AFP or the Philippine Marine Corps."

"For accuracy, we respectfully encourage the use of the individuals’ names, or simply refer to them as witnesses, affiants, or former staff/bodyguards of the concerned personalities, as appropriate."

President Marcos is set to grace the Philippine Navy's anniversary. He will also lead the commissioning of the BRP Rajah Lakandula.

BRP RAJAH LAKANDULA 🇵🇭

Marcos inspects the BRP Rajah Lakandula, the latest in the Sulayman-class offshore patrol vessels of the PH Navy. @here

Marcos praises Navy in Mindanao for immediately activating its disaster response mechanism following the earthquake yesterday.

PH FLAGS FLOATING STRUCTURES INSIDE BAJO DE MASINLOC @here

In a statement, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea says the Philippines has confirmed floating structures inside the lagoon of Bajo de Masinloc.

FULL STATEMENT:

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) confirms the information released by AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. yesterday regarding the presence of a floating structure in Bajo de Masinloc.

Aerial monitoring by several agencies has confirmed the presence of a 6x6-meter floating structure with what appears to be an antenna. Latest imagery obtained by the AFP likewise shows the presence of personnel on top of the structure. Recent PCG monitoring further indicates that the platform is currently located within the shoal, with individuals observed onboard.

The NTF-WPS is closely coordinating with relevant government agencies to monitor developments and further assess the nature, purpose, and implications of the installation and related activities within the shoal. Inter-agency efforts are ongoing to establish a complete and accurate picture of the situation.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has already undertaken appropriate diplomatic action with the government of the People’s Republic of China in connection with the illegal presence of this floating structure. The protection of Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction remains a paramount consideration. The Philippine Government will continue to take appropriate actions consistent with international law and in defense of the country's national interests.

The NTF-WPS remains steadfast in upholding the rules-based international order, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award. We reiterate that Bajo de Masinloc is an integral part of the Philippines and falls within the country's maritime zones as recognized under international law.

NTF WPS to hold presser on developments in the West Philippine Sea. Watch live on Rappler at around 9am -- @here

Spokespersons for the NSC, NMC, PCG, Philippine Navy, and DFA hold press conference after the NTF-WPS confirmed that a floating structure was seen inside Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal). | via @Bea Cupin - RAPPLER

Philippines tells China: Remove floating structure in Bajo de Masinloc 

DFA spokesperson Deputy Assistant Secretary Rogelio Villanueva says presence of the platform "not only a violation of the sovereignty of the Philippines but is also inconsistent with international law.... We therefore urge china to remove the structures within Bajo de Masinloc."

LOOK: PCG presents timeline of Philippine monitoring of structures — by the PCG, the PH Navy, BFAR — inside Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea. PCG notes PH assets have been harassed by helicopters, even a fighter jet. | via @Bea Cupin - RAPPLER

NEWS UPDATE - China announces sanctions on PH defense secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr for "repeatedly made irresponsible remarks on China, which undermines China’s legitimate interests and sabotages China-Philippines relations." @here

Marcos extends condolences to Thai royal family after Princess Bajrakitiyabha’s death

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday, June 13, extends his condolences to the King of Thailand Maha Vajiralongkorn and the whole royal family over the passing of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati last June 11 following a yearslong coma. @here