malaysiangDeputy Majority Leader Jude Acidre on Wednesday called on the House of Representatives to adopt measures that will provide protection and assistance to refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless individuals beyond Philippine borders, ahead of the observance of World Humanitarian Day on August 19. In a statement, the Tingog Partylist lawmaker noted that as a country that has a long history of calamities, disasters and war, the Philippines must not confine humanitarian work within its borders. “Our global village is connected by threads of our common humanity, and when one part of the tapestry suffers, the whole world feels the impact,’ Acidre said. ‘It is heart-wrenching to witness the unending strife in places like Syria, Yemen, and countless others.” He said as a member of the international community, the Philippines has a “moral responsibility to contribute to the healing process and extend a helping hand to those who cry out for aid.” Thus, Acidre urged his colleagues to proactively support measures, which aim to provide comprehensive protection for victims of crises such as refugees, asylum seekers, stateless applicants, stateless persons, and populations at risk of statelessness. ‘As elected representatives of the people, let us be reminded that we have not only the power – but the duty – to shape and champion policies that prioritize the well-being and dignity of all individuals, irrespective of their circumstances. This duty also extends beyond the borders of our nation,’ he said. Citing data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, he pointed out there were 108.4 million people worldwide who fled due to persecution, conflict and violence, among others as of the end of 2022, which is 19 million more compared to 2021. He also noted that the Philippines plays host to more than 180,000 internally displaced persons in Mindanao, around 1,600 refugees and asylum seekers, and more than 125,000 stateless persons, stateless applicants, and populations at risk of statelessness. ‘The Filipino people have a history steeped in solidarity and compassion. The prevalence and recurrence of disasters and conflict demand a response of empathy and goodwill – one that is anchored upon our being part of the same human family. We are, after all, human beings who deserve to live in safety and dignity,’ Acidre said. He said the country’s commitment to international humanitarian aid not only aligns with its values but also fosters goodwill and diplomatic ties, strengthening its position as a “compassionate and responsible nation.” ‘Let us strive to create a world where the privilege of humanitarian assistance is not determined by nationality, race, or creed, but by the same humanity that we all share,” he said
Source: Philippines News Agency
