The Philippine government has reaffirmed its dedication to human rights and inclusive growth during a constructive dialogue with the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in Geneva, Switzerland, scheduled for February 18 to 19, 2025. Leading the Philippine delegation is NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon, accompanied by Ambassador Carlos Sorreta, the Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, and Undersecretary Severo Catura from the Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat, among other government officials.
The dialogue serves as a platform for the Philippines to showcase its advancements in critical areas such as poverty alleviation, labor rights, education, healthcare, and social protection, fulfilling its obligations under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). The delegation was greeted by the Permanent Mission in Geneva before the discussions commenced.
The delegation comprises representatives from various key agencies including the Departments of Education, Health, Foreign Affairs, Justice, Labor and Employment, Social Welfare and Development, as well as the Dangerous Drugs Board, National Council on Disability Affairs, National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, National Security Council, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Philippine National Police.
Undersecretary Edillon emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to the rights outlined in the ICESCR, highlighting their importance in promoting inclusive and sustainable development. She stressed the collaborative efforts among government bodies, civil society, and international partners to implement evidence-based policies and programs that ensure equitable progress for all Filipinos.
NEDA, as the coordinating body for the Philippines’ compliance with the ICESCR, adopts a comprehensive government approach to treaty reporting and policy alignment. This includes the preparation of the 7th Periodic Report, responses to the List of Issues on the Periodic Report, and contributions to Chapter 2 of the 4th Philippine Human Rights Plan. NEDA has also facilitated multi-sectoral consultations and inter-agency discussions to enhance national policies on economic, social, and cultural rights.
Since ratifying the ICESCR in 1974, the Philippines has consistently upheld these rights as essential to national development. The country regularly submits periodic reports to the UN CESCR, outlining progress and challenges in implementing the Covenant’s provisions, including access to education, healthcare, and labor protections.
NEDA has ensured that the principles of the ICESCR are integrated into national policies and programs, notably in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, to guarantee that economic growth benefits all Filipinos, particularly those in marginalized and vulnerable groups.