President Rodrigo R. Duterte welcomed the start of the 2020 Human Rights Summit as a platform to “enhance collaborations in the protection and promotion of human rights.”
According to President Duterte, it shows the country’s earnestness in signifying and protecting the rights of each Filipino. The Philippines participating in various human rights treaties prove his point. However, the Chief Executive admitted that there is still so much to do when it comes to the matter.
“Let me, however, (stress) that our work is far from over, I urge everyone to strengthen the multi-sectoral engagement that will foster a healthy human rights environment for all.”
In relation to this, Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Menardo Guevarra pointed out that the absence of war is not the basis for peace and that the rehabilitation of areas affected by chaos is not the end in attaining justice and peace.
DOJ Sec. Guevarra emphasized the significance of the Anti-Terrorism Law that will serve as the path to lessen the act of terrorism in the country. He also assured that the provisions under the said law are not meant to violate human rights.
Meanwhile, the United Nations (UN) has thanked the Philippines for showing interest in strengthening human rights and “pledges its full support and full cooperation through our humanitarian development and human rights program.” – Report from Kenneth Paciente
