Philippines Celebrates Pact for the Future, Sets Priorities for UNESCO’s Programs
(photo courtesy of Cyril Bailleul, UNESCO)
PARIS 21 October 2024 – Philippine Ambassador Junever M. Mahilum-West, in her statement during the plenary meeting of the 220th Session of the UNESCO Executive Board, lauded the adoption of The Pact for the Future, a milestone that strengthens multilateralism and global governance and reflects the world's collective commitment to a sustainable, inclusive future.
In the context of UNESCO's mandate, the Ambassador underscored the Pact's recognition of culture as a vital driver of sustainable development, its emphasis on protecting human rights in the digital age and call for accessible, high-quality education for all.
Ambassador Mahilum-West also shared some of the Philippines' initiatives that synergize with UNESCO's fields of competence: 1) the Philippines' hosting of the International Marine Science Conference and the 3rd UN Ocean Decade Regional Conference in 2027; 2) Manila’s hosting of the Board of the Fund Responding to Loss and Damage which was operationalized at COP28; 3) hosting the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction; and 4) enactment of the Cultural Mapping Law which recognizes culture as a global public good.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, in her response to country statements delivered by delegations, expressed interest to engage with the Philippines in tackling the issue of climate change, the most serious threat to conservation of cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible.
The 220th Session of the Executive Board will take place until 23 October 2024, tackling a broad range of issues that include the 2026-2029 budget, human resources strategy, review of recommendations on education and science, and the procedure for electing the next Director-General. END
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