The Philippines introduced the Fourth Philippine Human Rights Plan (PHRP4) at the Human Rights Council as part of its commitment to inclusive governance and partnerships. The plan focuses on enhancing protections for vulnerable groups and aligns with international human rights treaties. It was developed through a collaborative process with various stakeholders and aims to strengthen engagement with civil society and external partners.
On 6 March 2025, the Philippines showcased its commitment to human rights at the Human Rights Council by presenting the Fourth Philippine Human Rights Plan (PHRP4), designed to foster inclusive governance and partnerships. Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs Charles Jose remarked that this plan serves as a roadmap for integrating human rights within the national development agenda, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Undersecretary Severo Catura of the Presidential Human Rights Committee emphasized that the PHRP4 was developed through an inclusive process, incorporating feedback from 485 civil society organizations and over 500 grassroots stakeholders alongside the Commission on Human Rights. The plan encompasses eight chapters dedicated to various rights, aligning with core human rights treaties ratified by the Philippines.
This initiative responds to one of the pledges made by the Philippine Government during the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in December 2023. Undersecretary Catura noted that the PHRP4 represents a call to actively engage in governance rooted in human rights principles, aiming to empower marginalized populations.
Permanent Representative Carlos D. Sorreta highlighted the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening human rights mechanisms, suggesting that the government will maintain engagement with external partners to facilitate cooperation. Mr. Abner Manlapaz, a civil society representative, called for enhanced collaboration between governments and civil societies to uphold shared human rights responsibilities.
The event, organized by the Philippine Mission to the United Nations in Geneva and PHRCS, attracted diverse stakeholders, reflecting the country’s proactive stance in the Human Rights Council as the 58th Session continues until 4 April 2025.
The presentation of the Fourth Philippine Human Rights Plan exemplifies the Philippines’ commitment to advancing human rights through collaborative partnerships and inclusive governance. The plan highlights the necessity for ongoing engagement with civil society and external partners while ensuring that human rights are central to national policies. Through this roadmap, the Philippines aims to empower vulnerable populations and reinforce accountability mechanisms to uphold human rights.
Original Source: dfa.gov.ph
