The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) continues to advocate for stronger, more relevant policies and domestic laws anchored in International Humanitarian Law (IHL), recognising that conflict situations are evolving and becoming increasingly complex with the rise of technological advancements and new modes of warfare.

The CHR calls on the government, policymakers, and non-government partners to adapt the implementation of IHL to local contexts while also ensuring stronger enforcement. This means moving beyond awareness campaigns toward tangible action—consistent with this year’s theme, “Galvanizing Commitment to International Humanitarian Law: Challenges and Opportunities in the Asia Pacific Region.” Such action must include strict application of the law, prosecution of violators, and enhanced training for military and police personnel.

In line with the celebration of IHL Month, the CHR recognises the Philippine Government’s hosting of the Asia Pacific Regional Conference on IHL on 11–14 August 2025, dubbed as the region’s largest IHL gathering this year, as an important opportunity for the country to strengthen its role as a champion of IHL, especially in addressing emerging challenges, such as cyber operations, and autonomous weapons systems [1].

The Commission also commends the active commitment demonstrated by the national and local governments, and their departments, bureaus, and agencies, in advancing IHL. Positive steps include the creation of the Inter-Agency Committee on IHL through Executive Order No. 77 (22 November 2024), and the participation of over 600 uniformed and civilian personnel in capacity-building activities, workshops, and roundtable discussions on IHL from January to June 2025 [2].

To date, the Philippines has enacted key legislation upholding IHL, including Republic Act (RA) No. 9851, An Act Defining and Penalizing Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity, and RA No. 11188, The Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act.

The CHR likewise acknowledges the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for its declared intent to seek a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the term 2027–2028 [3], further underscoring the country’s commitment to global peace and security grounded in humanitarian principles.

Looking ahead, the Commission urges the government to reassess the situation of persons displaced by armed conflicts. Protection is only one step. Ensuring access to basic needs, restoring livelihoods, and safeguarding dignity are equally critical.

May this serve as a reminder that making humanity prevail in the midst of conflict is a shared responsibility. The CHR calls for full accountability from all parties in upholding IHL, so that justice and protection become lived realities for every civilian affected by armed conflict.

Sources:
[1] Philippines to Host Largest Regional Conference on International Humanitarian Law https://dfa.gov.ph/dfa-news/dfa-releasesupdate/37010-philippines-to-host-largest-regional-conference-on-international-humanitarian-law
[2] ICRC Philippines 2025 humanitarian work infographic https://www.icrc.org/sites/default/files/2025-08/ICRC%20Philippines%202025%20humanitarian%20work%20infographic.pdf
[3] PBBM seeks support as PH eyes UN Security Council seat https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250906