US Secretary of State Rubio visited Manila, Philippines, to attend the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting. Numerous protesters gathered outside the venue, condemning Rubio and his role in the US involvement in the conflict with Iran.
At the event, protesters held signs reading: 'War criminals not welcome' and 'Boycott Trump! Boycott Rubio!'
Human rights activist Kristina Palabay stated that the US government 'continuously bombs and harms people in Palestine, Iran, the Philippines, and many other regions. US troops have been stationed in these areas for a long time and continue to establish military bases.'
Another protester, Mong Palatino, called on the government led by Philippine President Marcos Jr. to stop cooperating with Rubio.
He said: 'Rubio's visit will result in more US military bases in the Philippines and increase the plundering of Philippine natural resources. Therefore, we denounce the Marcos government’s collusion with the US.'