PH States Role as Human Rights Duty-Bearer in ASEAN Human Rights Dialogue 2022

DFA Assistant Secretary Jaime Victor B. Ledda, Deputy Assistant Secretary Aileen S. Mendiola-Rau, Deputy Assistant Secretary for ASEAN Affairs Noel M. Novicio, and Acting Director Lyza Maria S. Viejo presented a country brief during the ASEAN Human Rights Dialogue 2022. (DFA-ASEAN photo)

SIEM REAP, 01 December 2022 — The Philippines participated in the ASEAN Human Rights Dialogue 2022 held on 19 November 2022 in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

During the closed-door Dialogue, the Philippines shared the country’s priorities and initiatives in the protection and promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The Philippine Delegation was composed of Assistant Secretary and Former Philippine Representative to the AICHR Jaime Victor B. Ledda, Deputy Assistant Secretary and Philippine Representative to the AICHR Aileen S. Mendiola-Rau, Deputy Assistant Secretary and Alternate Philippine Representative to the AICHR Noel M. Novicio, and Acting Director and AICHR Assistant Lyza Maria S. Viejo.

Assistant Secretary Jaime Victor B. Ledda gave a presentation on the current status of the Philippine human rights situation. He spoke about the country’s priorities on human rights under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos, including the holistic approach to the anti-illegal drug campaign, strengthening domestic investigative and accountability mechanisms, upholding freedom of the press, protection of migrant workers, and updates on relevant laws and international engagements undertaken by the Philippines.

“The Philippines’ adherence to international standards on human rights and its open and constructive engagements with global bodies, especially the UN, on these same standards remains strong and vibrant,” emphasized Assistant Secretary Ledda.

“The Philippines reiterates its willingness and readiness to collaborate with all stakeholders, including similarly situated UN Member States, to share knowledge and awareness in clarifying such emerging trends.  Fully recognizing its role as a human rights duty-bearer, the country shall continue to provide accessible venues and advocates for dialogue,” he added.

The Dialogue is a venue for discussions between AMS, AICHR, and National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs). It is an open space to share experiences in promoting and protecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the peoples of ASEAN. END

Left photo: Deputy Assistant Secretary Aileen S. Mendiola-Rau shared insights during the open dialogue on human rights. Right photo: Assistant Secretary Jaime Victor B. Ledda delivered the Philippines’ country briefing during the ASEAN Human Rights Dialogue 2022. (DFA-ASEAN photo)