On the somber occasion of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Ilan Fluss, addressed the ongoing issue of antisemitism, emphasizing its continued presence in today’s world. During a ceremony in Manila, Fluss urged the public to unite in the battle against hatred and to actively challenge Holocaust denial, stating, “We must never forget. Never again will we allow such horrors to unfold.” He stressed the importance of not being passive in the face of cruelty and injustice, advocating for a firm stand against hatred to prevent the recurrence of past atrocities.
Fluss referenced a recent Anti-Defamation League study, which reported a significant rise in antisemitic beliefs globally following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks by Hamas. The study revealed that 46% of the global population harbors antisemitic views, with the Philippines ranking 53rd among 103 surveyed countries. In the Philippines alone, the percentage of individuals with antisemitic attitudes increased dramatically from 3% in 2014 to 42% in the previous year. Fluss expressed concern over these statistics, highlighting the need for ongoing Holocaust education to combat the spread of hateful ideologies.
Education Undersecretary Gina Gonong, also present at the event, voiced her alarm at the rising figures and committed to reviewing the inclusion of Holocaust education in school curriculums. She emphasized the importance of remembering the Holocaust as a critical lesson in human history, underscoring the need to foster a culture of peace, understanding, and respect to prevent future atrocities.
The International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust is observed annually on January 27, marking 80 years since the end of World War II and the Holocaust.