Lula Reaffirms Support for Palestinians and Condemns Wars After Meeting With Philippine President

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva reaffirmed his support for the Palestinian people and condemned the effects of war after meeting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Nov. 14, 2026. Lula also addressed the effects of the war involving Iran on the Philippines, including the impact of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

“We condemn the senselessness of wars and denounce their effects on human lives and global supply chains,” Lula said in remarks to the press. He said the Philippines was among the countries most affected by the strait’s closure and that several Filipinos had been harmed. Lula also reiterated Brazil’s firm support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.

Lula pointed to shared experiences and goals between Brazil and the Philippines, saying the countries have colonial histories and cultural affinities. Though they are on opposite sides of the world, he said, both face the challenge of combining economic growth with social inclusion and environmental protection.

He also highlighted social programs in both countries, citing Brazil’s Bolsa Família and the Philippines’ Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, known as 4Ps. Lula said public policies such as these are essential to reducing inequality and creating opportunities. The 4Ps is the Philippines’ main cash-transfer program.

Lula is in the Philippines to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit. His trip marks the first state visit to the country by a Brazilian president, which he described as a source of pride. He also called the Philippines Brazil’s oldest partner in Southeast Asia. The visit is intended to expand Brazil’s diplomatic and trade relations in the region. It comes days after the Philippine Department of Agriculture announced a 60-day suspension of pork imports from Brazil.