27 February 2014 - Setting the tone for a Security Council debate on the maintenance of international peace and security, the Philippines and the United Nations Secretary-General called on nations to adhere to the rule of law in order to prevent conflict and resolve disputes, particularly at the international level.

Speaking at the open debate of the Security Council on February 19, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon pointed out that “At the international level, adherence to the rule of law is critical for conflict prevention and the peaceful resolution of disputes.” 

The statement was seen to put in full context the work of the United Nations on the rule of law including in conflict-affected and post conflict-affected areas.

Speaking at the same open debate, Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations Libran N. Cabactulan said that the rule of law is “a vital object and instrument of policy that can lead to lasting peace and stability.” Ambassador Cabactulan however pointed out that, “The rule of law by itself does not ipso facto bring peace and stability. It is adherence to the rule of law that brings those ideals and principles to life and makes positive changes real,” he emphasized.

Ambassador Cabactulan stressed that the principled position of the Philippines was amply articulated in the principles and Charter of the United Nations, further stating that as “the landscapes and waterscapes that give rise to tension, instability or conflict have become increasingly complex and complicated, the fundamental importance of the rule of law cannot be questioned.”

“In the pursuit of enduring international peace and security, all stakeholders – especially Governments – should match their pronouncements on the rule of law with action. When we adhere to the rule of law, we make sure that we prevent conflicts, resolve disputes and maintain peace and security. Not through sheer raw power but through the moral weight of pacific processes,” Ambassador Cabactulan said.

“When we adhere to the rule of law, we make full use of the entire international legal infrastructure available before us to resolve disputes: the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea and other specialized tribunals,” he added, emphasizing as well that “the international legal system provides ample and extensive adjudicative mechanisms.”

Speaking after the debate, Ambassador Cabactulan welcomed the statement of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and described it as “a clear message to the world that the biggest investment the organization can make is in preventing conflicts from arising and in resolving disputes.”

“There continues to be much work to be done in conflict and post-conflict-affected areas through peacekeeping missions. As a troop and police contributing country, the Philippines is doing its part. But we should never tire from reaffirming the importance of conflict prevention and dispute resolution,” said Ambassador Cabactulan.

“The Philippines’ commitment and adherence to the rule of law has been demonstrated through our participation in peacekeeping missions. At home, we are resolute in the pursuit of just and lasting peace in Mindanao with our peace talks anchored on the rule of law and in the framework of the Philippine Constitution,” the Ambassador further noted. 

Ambassador Cabactulan underscored, “In the international context, we have demonstrated that commitment as well and we will continue with our efforts to amplify the message that for the resolution of disputes, nations must be aware not only of their rights under international law, but moreso their duties and responsibilities.” END