16 November 2015 – Speaking during the General Policy Debate of the 38th session of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) General Conference in Paris, France on November 06, Secretary Sonny B. Coloma, Head of the Philippine Delegation, extended the appreciation of President Benigno S. Aquino III to UNESCO for being a steadfast partner in pursuing shared goals in education, science and technology, culture and communication.
Secretary Coloma shared the gains of the Philippines under the Administration of President Aquino in promoting comprehensive human development, inclusive quality education and lifelong learning, and social protection programs for its people.
“For the past five years, the Filipino people have witnessed and demonstrated how effective, transparent, and accountable governance can effectively bring about inclusive growth thereby enabling those living in the periphery to swim in the mainstream of social opportunity,” said Secretary Coloma.
He underscored that the Philippines devotes the single largest portion of its national budget to education and integrated social protection programs in health, nutrition and livelihood. He added that the flagship K-12 education reform program lays the foundation for lifelong learning, by raising education standards and providing multiple pathways to allow for adaptability to ever-changing work and life environments.
Secretary Coloma reaffirmed the Philippines’ strong commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, informing that the country has “aligned our priorities and focused our energies on actively propagating the Sustainable Development Goals.”
He particularly mentioned sustainable development goals on ending poverty, ensuring quality education, safe and resilient communities, combating climate change, conserving the oceans, protecting ecosystems, and providing access to justice and accountable institutions.
He underscored the Philippines’ policy on freedom of speech: “We respect, protect and ensure the rights of journalists to practice their profession unhampered by prior restraint and given full protection by applicable laws,” said the Secretary.
Secretary Coloma likewise highlighted key Philippine initiatives in UNESCO, such as the Platform for Human Rights Education and Training promoting a culture peace and non-violence, and as active member of the World Heritage Committee protecting natural and cultural sites of outstanding universal value.
Secretary Coloma was accompanied by Department of Education Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro, Commission on Higher Education Chairperson Patricia Licuanan, Ambassador Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Philippine Permanent Delegate to UNESCO and other members of the Philippine Delegation. END