36/12 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Philippines

GE.17-12107(E)



Human Rights Council Thirty-sixth session

11-29 September 2017

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Philippines

* The annex is being circulated without formal editing, in the language of submission only.

United Nations A/HRC/36/12

Introduction

1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-seventh session from 1 to 12

May 2017. The review of the Philippines was held at the 11th meeting, on 8 May 2017. The

delegation of the Philippines was headed by the Senior Deputy Executive Secretary in the

Office of the President, Menardo I. Guevarra, and the Chair of the Foreign Relations

Committee, Senate of the Philippines, Alan Peter S. Cayetano. At its 17th meeting, held on

11 May 2017, the Working Group adopted the report on the Philippines.

2. On 13 February 2017, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of the Philippines: Kenya, Paraguay and

Switzerland.

3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution

5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents

were issued for the review of the Philippines:

(a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/27/PHL/1);

(b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High

Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b)

(A/HRC/WG.6/27/PHL/2);

(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c)

(A/HRC/WG.6/27/PHL/3).

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, Czechia, Germany, Mexico, the

Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom of Great

Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America was transmitted to the

Philippines through the troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the universal

periodic review.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The delegation stated that Filipinos believed that people were created in the image of

God and that there could be no compromise on human rights and dignity. Filipinos also

believed in accountability.

6. The President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, was at the helm of the

Government because the people had demanded real change. Filipinos longed for the rule of

law, equality and respect for the human rights of all people regardless of faith, social status,

sexual orientation, age, disability or ethnicity, or of whether they were from urban or rural

areas.

7. The Government was committed to meeting its obligations arising from the treaties

it had ratified and to integrating a human rights agenda into its development initiatives.

Guided by the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022, the Government had adopted a

culture- and gender-sensitive paradigm and a human rights-based approach to public

service. A campaign against illegal drugs was being pursued to preserve lives and to

prevent the country from turning into a narco-State. At all times, the Government upheld

the rule of law and President Duterte had adopted a policy of zero tolerance for abuse by

law enforcers. The Government had adopted a holistic and balanced approach to addressing

crime and illegal drugs. In addition to strengthening law enforcement and judicial

mechanisms, it encouraged private sector participation to ensure more effective and

sustainable rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for drug users who wished to stop

using.

8. The situation of illegal drugs could only be understood by recognizing the

relationship between illegal drugs, violent crime and poverty. The violence was associated

with drug lords and drug suppliers. In respect of the government campaign against illegal

drugs, “alternate facts” were being spread by critics and widely quoted by the media. The

delegation sought to correct those “facts” by stating the following. Firstly, those critics had

changed the definition of extrajudicial killings, thereby deceiving the public and the media

into believing that there had been a sudden wave of State-sponsored extrajudicial killings.

There had been a deliberate attempt to include all homicides related to the campaign against

illegal drugs as extrajudicial killings and to say that they were State-sponsored, which was

not true. Secondly, the 1.266 million drug pushers and users who had surrendered were

being rehabilitated. Thirdly, during the six-year period prior to the Duterte administration,

93,197 drug operations had been conducted while barely 10 months into the Duterte

administration, 53,503 such operations had been conducted. Fourthly, 64,917 drug-related

arrests had been made. Fifthly, of the 9,432 homicide cases, 2,692 deaths had resulted from

presumed legitimate law enforcement operations. While the increase in police operations

had resulted in more people surrendering, there were also people who violently resisted

arrest, which in turn led to more deaths. Although deaths arising from law enforcement

operations were presumed to be legitimate, they were automatically investigated.

9. The Duterte administration had doubled the budget of the Commission on Human

Rights. President Duterte had institutionalized Executive Order No. 2, also known as the

“Freedom of information order”, something no other Philippine president had done, and

installed a direct telephone line to the Office of the President for complaints from citizens.

10. The Government was in the process of drafting its human rights action plan for the

next five years. A human rights-based approach to development would be implemented.

11. The Government supported the universal periodic review mechanism and the United

Nations human rights system. A decision on which recommendations to accept would be

taken against the backdrop of national challenges.

12. The universal periodic review was effective because the Human Rights Council had

been successful in insulating it from polarization. While the special procedures of the

Council were often effective, they sometimes did more harm than good. The delegation

referred to a tweet by the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary

executions, Agnes Callamard, which suggested she was impartial and unfair. Invitations to

special rapporteurs would be extended at an appropriate time, provided they proved their

independence and willingness to engage in a constructive manner.

13. The Philippines was addressing a communist rebellion, unrest, a rebellion in the

south, inequality and social injustice, control of the economy by the political elite and

criminal and drug syndicates that acted with impunity. Terrorism was a national, regional

and international threat.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

14. During the interactive dialogue, 95 delegations made statements. Recommendations

made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.

15. Viet Nam welcomed the recent ratification of the Convention against Trafficking in

Persons, Especially Women and Children, of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations

(ASEAN).

16. Yemen noted that the Philippines had signed the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment and implemented human rights programmes for police officers and on the

eradication of poverty.

17. Zambia welcomed the acceptance of several recommendations from the first and

second cycles of the universal periodic review but noted that most of the recommendations

had not been implemented.

18. Algeria appreciated the plans to improve the living standards of the population,

particularly of women and children from poor families.

19. Angola noted the progress made through the adoption of laws to fulfil the

obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

20. Argentina congratulated the Philippines for adopting the Philippine Development

Plan for 2017-2022, especially the section on the rights of women.

21. Australia expressed concern at reports of extrajudicial killings associated with the

war on drugs and the involvement of the national police.

22. Austria commended the Philippines for the measures on modern family planning

and poverty reduction but expressed concern at plans to reintroduce the death penalty and

the increase in extrajudicial killings.

23. Azerbaijan recognized the progress made in protecting vulnerable groups,

combating trafficking in human beings and ensuring the rule of law.

24. Bangladesh noted the 10-point socioeconomic agenda aimed at combating poverty,

efforts to protect vulnerable groups, support to education, the programme against child

labour and policies to combat human trafficking.

25. Belarus commended the Philippines for the measures implemented to guarantee

socioeconomic rights, including the development of social support, and to combat human

trafficking.

26. Belgium commended the Government for creating a monitoring, reporting and

response system for children affected by armed conflict and for further defining

responsibilities of government agencies responding to violations against children.

27. Bosnia and Herzegovina noted the Government’s focus on improving the protection

of civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights. It welcomed the

efforts made in relation to women’s rights.

28. Botswana noted the commitment to promoting human rights but was concerned by

reports of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and heightened campaigns against

illegal drug-related activities resulting in deaths.

29. Brazil welcomed efforts to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and

gender identity but was concerned about the alleged number of disappearances and

extrajudicial killings.

30. Brunei Darussalam noted efforts to expand access to quality education through the

enactment of several laws and progress in the empowerment of women and promotion of

gender equality.

31. Bulgaria commended the Philippines for its efforts to reduce poverty and

appreciated its accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture.

32. Cambodia welcomed the implementation of most of the accepted recommendations

from previous reviews. It commended the 10-point socioeconomic agenda aimed at poverty

reduction.

33. Canada urged the Philippines to dismantle and disarm paramilitary groups, to stop

the militarization of the ancestral lands of indigenous peoples and improve access by

indigenous peoples to health and social services.

34. Chad highlighted the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022, which advocated

the use of a human rights approach in the public sector, in the allocation of funds for

poverty reduction and in social services programmes.

35. Chile welcomed the progress made in the ratification of international human rights

instruments. It was however concerned about the persistence of extrajudicial executions and

enforced disappearances.

36. China expressed support for the campaign against illegal drugs.

37. Costa Rica was concerned about the war on drugs, as it incited extrajudicial

executions, enforced disappearances and torture.

38. Croatia encouraged a more proactive approach that linked the principle of the rule of

law to the socioeconomic development agenda in order to achieve a more comprehensive

integration of human rights norms.

39. Cuba highlighted the existence of a human rights commission with a mandate to

investigate human rights violations, as well as the work of the commission on women to

counter discrimination against women.

40. Czechia acknowledged the efforts and accomplishments in closing the gender gap.

41. Denmark expressed concern about the fact that some recent initiatives to combat

crime, including the war on drugs, might lead to impunity and violations of human rights. It

also expressed concern about the high number of attacks on human rights defenders.

42. Ecuador praised the actions taken to protect domestic workers, including the joint

operations handbook, and the commitments to protect the environment through a national

plan and specific laws.

43. Egypt urged the Philippines to uphold international human rights norms in the

context of the war on drugs. It noted the peace plan between the Government and the Moro

Islamic Liberation Front.

44. Estonia noted the efforts made by the Philippines to meet its human rights

obligations since its previous review.

45. France raised concerns regarding the proliferation of extrajudicial executions and

inquired about the national surveillance mechanisms that existed in that area.

46. Georgia called on the Philippines to refrain from restoring the death penalty and to

issue a standing invitation to the special procedure mandate holders.

47. Germany expressed deep concern about reports of human rights violations in the

context of the so-called war on drugs.

48. Ghana stated that, despite the acceptance by the Philippines of 11 recommendations

on putting an end to extrajudicial killings and strengthening accountability for those crimes

at the previous review, such killings remained widespread.

49. Guatemala acknowledged the accession by the Philippines to the Optional Protocol

to the Convention against Torture. It expressed concern at reports that the Government’s

campaign against drugs had resulted in the persecution and killing of drug users and drug

traffickers.

50. Haiti welcomed the success of the economic programmes in the Philippines.

51. The Holy See referred to reports of trafficking in Philippine men, women and

children for labour exploitation. It also expressed concern about extrajudicial killings and

enforced disappearances.

52. Honduras highlighted the progress made in the areas of social inclusion,

participation of women in decision-making and youth education.

53. Hungary expressed concern about the fact that since President Duterte had taken

office and announced a campaign targeting those allegedly involved in drug-related

activities, over 7,000 people had been killed by the police and unknown individuals. It also

referred to the threats faced by human rights defenders.

54. Iceland expressed alarm over the high rate of killings since the election of President

Duterte and referred to the allegations of enforced disappearances, torture and other ill-

treatment by police officers.

55. Indonesia commended the Philippines for completing the human resources road map

for 2016-2022, the significant budget allocated to public education and the commitment to

fighting human trafficking.

56. Iraq praised the Philippines for its national report and commended it for the

reproductive rights act and the recovery care provided in the fight against drugs.

57. Ireland appreciated the commitment to human rights but shared its deep concern at

the marked deterioration in the rule of law since the previous review.

58. Italy welcomed and encouraged further efforts in the field of human rights.

59. Japan noted social problems involving violence against women. It offered its support

for the development of drug treatment facilities and the formulation of treatment

programmes.

60. Kenya commended the Philippines for the steps taken since its first and second

reviews and urged it to continue to implement the remaining recommendations.

61. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic commended the Philippines for taking

measures to implement the recommendations arising from previous reviews and welcomed

the progresses made in protecting the rights of women.

62. In response to questions and comments, the delegation of the Philippines stated that,

pursuant to Administrative Order No. 163, non-governmental and civil society

organizations had been encouraged to join the efforts of the Government in promoting

compliance with human rights obligations. Human rights defenders participated in

congressional hearings on the enactment of laws that affected human rights and the

enactment of a law defining their rights was under review.

63. The Government respected the independence of the Commission on Human Rights.

The President appointed the members of the Commission through a selection process that

gave weight to endorsements mostly from non-governmental organizations. The budget of

the Commission for 2016-2017 had almost doubled.

64. The Government had established an inter-agency committee to resolve cases of

enforced disappearances, torture and other grave violations of the rights to life, liberty and

security of person. According to the national definition, extrajudicial killings only involved

victims who were members of cause-oriented advocacy groups. Crimes falling outside that

definition were treated as regular crimes.

65. An inter-agency committee addressed trafficking in persons, including involuntary

servitude. The ASEAN Convention against Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and

Children, had been ratified in 2017 and a “child protection compact” had been concluded

with a third country to advance the campaign against trafficking in children.

66. Individuals meeting the required criteria continued to avail themselves of the

Witness Protection, Security and Benefit Programme.

67. The protection and welfare of vulnerable and marginalized groups such as

indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, women, children and older persons were at

the top of the administration’s agenda and a package of laws addressing their various needs

was being considered.

68. Since the previous review, a number of laws had been enacted, including a foster

care act and a law mandating emergency relief and protection for children before, during

and after disasters and emergencies. The Universal Health Care Act and the Sin Tax

Reform Law had been strengthened.

69. Measures ensuring the equal rights of wives in relation to property, among other

issues, were pending. An executive order had been issued to fully implement the

reproductive health law. Progress had been made in implementing the Responsible

Parenthood and Reproductive Health Programme and there had been a significant increase

in the national contraception prevalence rate and in the provision of free and lifelong

antiretroviral therapy for pregnant and breastfeeding women with HIV.

70. The police had implemented an internal mechanism to ensure that personnel

responsible for human rights violations such as torture were disciplined. The doctrine of

command responsibility had been introduced. Proper procedures were being observed to

ensure that torture was not used to extract confessions during investigations.

71. Prison congestion was being addressed through various measures, including a

paralegal programme.

72. A specific law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation was

being pursued. However, there were statutes, local government ordinances and

jurisprudence that addressed discrimination and hate crimes, including on the grounds of

sexual orientation and gender identity.

73. The Kindergarten Education Act and the Enhanced Basic Education Act had led to

an increase in enrolment among indigenous peoples and a decline in the dropout rate. Also,

an increase in the budget for basic education reform had increased enrolment among

working learners and marginalized children.

74. Latvia encouraged the Philippines to use the expertise of the special procedures and

expressed concern about the rising death toll from extrajudicial executions owing to the war

on drugs.

75. Lebanon welcomed the campaign against drugs, which had had positive effects on

the level of crime.

76. Libya appreciated the efforts made to combat corruption, crime and illegal drug use

and the determination of the Philippines to address the challenges of poverty reduction and

implement policies and programmes for sustainable development.

77. Liechtenstein expressed concern at the proposal to reinstate the death penalty and at

the persistence of appalling conditions of detention.

78. Lithuania acknowledged the positive steps taken to strengthen human rights

standards but expressed concern about the extrajudicial killings and the intention to

reinstate the death penalty.

79. Luxembourg expressed concern about the human rights situation, particularly about

the extrajudicial executions within the framework of the fight against drugs and the

allegations of torture of civilians.

80. Malaysia commended the Philippines for its human rights achievements and, as a

fellow ASEAN member, recognized the significant role of the Philippines in the pursuit of

a common human rights agenda in the region.

81. The Maldives was encouraged by the efforts to promote gender equality and

recognized the efforts made by the Philippines to ensure a better quality of education.

82. Mexico hailed the political peace agreement in Mindanao, the actions to assist

displaced people and the enactment of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive

Health Act.

83. Montenegro noted the efforts to protect children’s rights but regretted that a high

number of children were engaged in child labour. It expressed concern at the extrajudicial

killings of suspected drugs dealers.

84. Morocco commended the Philippines for initiatives to promote socioeconomic rights

through poverty reduction programmes, improve access to education and promote

employment, as well as for its action to combat human trafficking.

85. Mozambique noted with appreciation the implementation of the 10-point

socioeconomic agenda, which had led to a drastic reduction in poverty, and commended the

progress achieved on gender equality.

86. Myanmar stated that the response to the threat posed by illegal drug use should be

left to the Government and took positive note of recent measures with regard to the

environment.

87. Nepal welcomed the initiatives to further promote the rights to health and education

and noted efforts to eliminate the worst forms of child labour, combat human trafficking

and protect the rights of migrant workers.

88. The Netherlands commended the Philippines for the impressive measures taken in

the fight against online sexual exploitation and human trafficking. It expressed concern

about the high number of extrajudicial executions.

89. New Zealand commended the Philippines for ratifying the Second Optional Protocol

to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the

death penalty, and for enacting the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act.

90. Norway appreciated the efforts and commitment to work for peace and encouraged

continuation of reforms to strengthen workers’ rights and combat corruption.

91. Pakistan appreciated the creation of the National Anti-Environmental Crime Task

Force and the implementation of poverty reduction programmes, the Sustainable Livelihood

Programme and a comprehensive and integrated social services programme.

92. Peru acknowledged the progress made in the areas of health, education and housing.

It noted the commitment to sustainable development.

93. Poland welcomed the adoption of the Children’s Emergency Protection and Relief

Act, which aimed to facilitate the reunification of separated children and the training of

emergency responders in child protection.

94. Portugal was concerned about plans to restore the death penalty more than a decade

after it had been abolished and about the ongoing anti-drug campaign.

95. Qatar noted the progress made, particularly in relation to economic, social and

cultural rights, and appreciated the development action plan, as it took a holistic approach

to development on the basis of human rights.

96. The Republic of Korea noted concerns about the current situation of civil and

political rights and stated that human rights should be respected at all times.

97. The Republic of Moldova encouraged the Philippines to place the protection of the

fundamental rights of all persons at the core of every policy and action. It was concerned

about initiatives to reinstate capital punishment.

98. Romania stated that the implementation of supported recommendations from the

previous review demonstrated a commitment to human rights. It commended the

Philippines for its human rights-based campaign to eliminate the drug menace.

99. The Russian Federation commended the Philippines for enacting legislation in the

areas of health care, education and labour, and welcomed the working quota for persons

with disabilities and the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022.

100. Saudi Arabia commended the Philippines for its poverty alleviation strategy and

relative plan, from which about 4 million poor households benefited.

101. Sierra Leone commended the Philippines for sustained efforts aimed at improving

the lives of its peoples, including the Sustainable Livelihood Programme. It noted efforts to

address the rights of women, including through the Magna Carta of Women.

102. Slovakia noted that various human rights laws related to recommendations arising

from the previous review had been passed. It was concerned about reported initiatives to

reinstate capital punishment.

103. Slovenia was concerned about reports on enforced disappearance and extrajudicial

killings in the name of the war against drugs and reminded the Philippines of its

commitments under international human rights law.

104. Spain welcomed the mechanism established by the Commission on Human Rights to

address human rights complaints, as well as the legislation on protecting children in

emergency situations.

105. Sri Lanka noted the policies and programmes that had been developed to strengthen

the rights of migrant workers at the national level, especially the assistance provided to

Filipinos working overseas through the Assistance to Nationals and Legal Assistance Fund.

106. The State of Palestine welcomed the efforts to improve education and commended

the steps taken to promote the rights of people with disabilities, including by developing a

national action plan.

107. The Sudan welcomed the “green job creation” programme to protect the

environment, as well as the accession to the ASEAN Convention against Trafficking in

Persons, Especially Women and Children, and the Domestic Workers Convention, 2011

(No. 189), of the International Labour Organization.

108. Sweden was concerned that 7.3 million women in the Philippines had an unmet need

for modern contraceptives, as estimated by 2016 government data.

109. Switzerland was gravely concerned at reports indicating that many extrajudicial

executions were being carried out and at the legislative steps under way to reintroduce the

death penalty.

110. Thailand applauded the protection of vulnerable groups, the implementation of the

United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-custodial Measures

for Women Offenders (the Bangkok Rules), efforts to combat human trafficking and

provide assistance to victims and the implementation of the “Freedom of information

order”.

111. Timor-Leste noted the adoption of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive

Health Act, the Food Staples Sufficiency Programme, the Sustainable Livelihood

Programme and efforts to increase gender sensitivity in the courts.

112. Tunisia welcomed the accession of the Philippines to the Optional Protocol to the

Convention against Torture and the programmes to combat poverty.

113. Uganda was encouraged by the commitment to achieve inclusive growth under the

Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022 and the 10-point socioeconomic agenda.

114. Ukraine respected the commitment to international conventions and encouraged the

Philippines to take measures to improve the human rights situation, including in the

criminal justice system and in respect of the rights of children and persons with disabilities.

115. The United Kingdom expressed concern about the high death toll associated with the

campaign against illegal drugs and about plans to reinstate the death penalty and to lower

the age of criminal responsibility, among other things.

116. The United States of America stressed the importance of investigating the deaths

associated with the counter-narcotics campaign.

117. Uruguay welcomed the efforts to protect victims of human trafficking and

achievements in the fight against discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation

and gender identity.

118. Uzbekistan noted the accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture.

119. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela welcomed the efforts in the fight against

poverty and the campaign against illicit drugs.

120. Gabon praised the significant progress made in promoting and protecting human

rights since the previous review.

121. Singapore commended the Philippines for its efforts to pursue social justice, achieve

inclusive growth and reduce inequality.

122. In relation to violence against women, the delegation of the Philippines stated that

guidelines had been issued at the village level for the establishment of points of contact

where victims could go to receive immediate help.

123. The delegation of the Philippines reported that an inter-agency committee on

children in armed conflict had been created in 2013. There was also a monitoring, reporting

and response system for grave violations of children’s rights in situations of armed conflict.

124. The Juvenile Justice Welfare Act had been strengthened. Local government units

were required to appoint social workers to assist children in conflict with the law, among

others.

125. The programme against child labour had recorded a 47.9 per cent decrease in

children involved in labour, had awarded child labour-free certificates to establishments

and closed establishments engaging minors in hazardous work. Project Angel Tree

provided social assistance to children who had been subjected to child labour.

126. The Government had issued Department Order No. 174, which reaffirmed workers’

constitutional and statutory right to security of tenure by prohibiting “labour-only

contracting” (an arrangement whereby a contractor or subcontractor merely recruits,

supplies or places workers to perform a job or work for a principal) and reinforced workers’

rights in terms of labour standards, self-organization and collective bargaining. A review of

the enforcement framework would be undertaken.

127. Safeguarding the rights of Philippine workers abroad was a priority. The Philippine

Overseas Employment Administration regulated the overseas recruitment industry. The

Philippines had bilateral labour agreements with 31 countries of destination. Returning

workers were offered reintegration seminars and training.

128. The armed forces implemented the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan”

(Cooperation), which had been subsumed by the Development Support and Security Plan

“Kapayapaan” (Freedom). Both Plans focused on support for nation-building, civil military

cooperation, peacebuilding and military action against terrorists and other armed groups.

Military operations were only conducted in areas where there had been threats endangering

the safety of the people.

129. Executive Order No. 264 had led to the creation of the Citizens Armed Force

Geographical Units to assist the military in helping address local insurgency threats in

operations during disasters and calamities and in socioeconomic development projects. The

Citizens Armed Force was not a paramilitary force. A national task force had been created

to disband private armed groups in Bangsamoro and in the adjacent Regions 9 and 12.

130. The collective rights of indigenous peoples were being protected by the Indigenous

Peoples Rights Act. There had been no forced evictions of indigenous peoples owing to

mining operations. Ancestral domains could not be accessed by mining companies without

the free, prior and informed consent of indigenous peoples. That prohibition was also

applicable to the armed forces, except in “hot pursuit” operations. The Philippine

Development Plan for 2017-2022 raised awareness of the rights of indigenous peoples.

131. Recommendations relating to the death penalty would be discussed with the leaders

of Congress. The Government was committed to ending killings and supressing, to the

extent possible, crime caused by the consumption of illegal drugs, corruption and poverty.

132. In summary, the delegation reiterated that the Philippines consistently maintained a

culture of respect for human rights; relevant mechanisms and institutions to enable

compliance with treaty obligations were in place and functioned properly; the Philippines

encouraged inclusiveness in complying with its human rights obligations by encouraging

the participation of all stakeholders; the Philippines continued to make significant strides in

promoting and protecting the human rights of vulnerable sectors of society; and there was

no State policy promoting, sanctioning or encouraging extrajudicial killings, as all law

enforcement operations in pursuit of the anti-illegal drug campaign were conducted within

the boundaries of the law, as instructed by President Duterte.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

133. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue and listed

below will be examined by the Philippines, which will provide responses in due time,

but no later than the thirty-sixth session of the Human Rights Council:

133.1 Ratify all conventions to which the country is not yet a party

(Gabon);

133.2 Ratify and implement without delay the International Convention for

the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (France);

133.3 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance (Angola) (Iraq) (Japan) (Kenya) (Montenegro)

(Sierra Leone);

133.4 Consider acceding to the International Convention for the Protection

of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, recognizing the competence of its

Committee (Uruguay);

133.5 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance and the Optional Protocol to the International

Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal);

133.6 Promptly ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples

Convention, 1989 (No. 169), of the International Labour Organization

(Guatemala);

133.7 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the

Child on a communications procedure (Slovakia);

133.8 Adhere to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of

the Child on a communications procedure (Croatia);

133.9 Ratify and adapt its national legislation to the Arms Trade Treaty

(Guatemala);

133.10 Uphold the human rights mechanisms and the special procedures

(Sudan);

133.11 Cooperate with special procedures by extending a standing invitation

to them (Peru);

133.12 Extend a standing invitation to all special procedure mandate holders

(Latvia);

133.13 Accept without prior condition the request for a visit by the Special

Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions and cooperate

with her fully (France);

133.14 Extend an invitation to the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial,

summary or arbitrary executions for an official visit in line with United Nations

terms of reference without any further delay (Germany);

133.15 Allow access to the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or

arbitrary executions and remove conditions on her proposed visit that could

compromise her impartiality (Ghana);

133.16 Permit the requested visit by the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial,

summary or arbitrary executions (Hungary);

133.17 Respond positively and unconditionally to the request of the Special

Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions to visit the

country (Latvia);

133.18 Make public the findings and implement the recommendations of the

Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or

Degrading Treatment or Punishment arising from its visit to the country in

2015 (Liechtenstein);

133.19 Consider establishing or strengthening a national mechanism

responsible for coordination, implementation, reporting and follow-up, in line

with the critical elements (best practices) of the OHCHR global study and guide

concerning national mechanisms for reporting and follow-up (Portugal);

133.20 Make an effort to implement all the accepted recommendations

(Zambia);

133.21 Continue its different reforms for the well-being and the full

enjoyment of human rights by its population (Chad);

133.22 Ensure the precedence of provisions of international human rights

treaties over national laws in cases of conflict (Slovakia);

133.23 Ensure the incorporation of the principles and norms of the

international human rights law, especially of those treaties to which the

Philippines is party, into its national legislation (Peru);

133.24 Ensure that domestic legislation conforms with the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and other human

rights instruments, fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of

the International Criminal Court and ratify the Optional Protocol to the

Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Estonia);

133.25 Ensure conformity of national legislation with the international legal

instruments on human rights, in particular the Convention on the Elimination

of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Gabon);

133.26 Promote legislation conforming fully to the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Japan);

133.27 Enact laws to establish a national preventive mechanism in

accordance with the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture

(Republic of Korea);

133.28 Expedite the establishment of an effective national preventive

mechanism, as required under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture (Slovenia);

133.29 Establish and ensure the proper functioning of a national preventive

mechanism (Republic of Moldova);

133.30 Ensure that laws, policies and programmes aimed at protecting the

human rights of women, elderly persons, persons with disabilities and

indigenous peoples are effectively implemented (Cuba);

133.31 Ensure that laws, policies and programmes to protect the rights of

women, the elderly, persons with disabilities and indigenous people are

effectively implemented (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

133.32 Strengthen the implementation of the measures set out in the five-

year plan of action for elderly people (Morocco);

133.33 Promulgate as soon as possible a law to establish an effective national

preventive mechanism against torture (Guatemala);

133.34 Continue its work to improve its potential in the human rights field,

particularly by strengthening national human rights institutions and

completing the process for the elaboration of the Philippine human rights

action plan (Russian Federation);

133.35 Complete and implement effectively the national human rights action

plan (China);

133.36 Continue the formulation and implementation of the national human

rights action plan (Nepal);

133.37 Accelerate the drafting of the national human rights action plan for

the next five years and start implementing it (Libya);

133.38 Develop its third human rights action plan to guide its policy

direction and ensure the implementation of programmes for an even more

robust promotion and protection of human rights (Thailand);

133.39 Expedite the process to put in place a human rights action plan

(Uganda);

133.40 Publicize and implement the national human rights action plan

(Kenya);

133.41 Strengthen cooperation with national and international human rights

institutions in order to implement the national human rights action plan

(Mexico);

133.42 Ensure human rights training for State security forces in order to

enhance their capacity to protect human rights (Ghana);

133.43 Provide adequate resourcing to the Commission on Human Rights

and allow it to investigate alleged extrajudicial killings (Australia);

133.44 Ensure that the fight against crime strictly respects international

standards (Peru);

133.45 Strengthen the campaign against illegal drugs (Bolivarian Republic

of Venezuela);

133.46 Continue its efforts to protect its people from the threat of drugs

while upholding human rights values (Myanmar);

133.47 Take the necessary measures to combat drug trafficking while

ensuring that the methods used are in conformity with international standards

(Haiti);

133.48 Ensure that all counter-narcotics operations are conducted in

conformity with constitutional protections and international human rights

obligations (United States of America);

133.49 Bring into line with international best practices the methods of

combating the use of illegal drugs in the Philippines, namely in terms of

prevention and alternative sanctions (Portugal);

133.50 Continue the holistic approach of the Inter-Agency Committee on

Anti-Illegal Drugs focusing on law enforcement operations, as well as on the

rehabilitation and reintegration of drug users (Romania);

133.51 Address the root cause of illegal drugs through development (China);

133.52 Adopt comprehensive and human-centred approaches to its anti-

illegal drug policy, particularly the provision of appropriate health measures

(Thailand);

133.53 Continue efforts to combat drugs and crime within a framework of

the protection of and respect for human rights (Lebanon);

133.54 Ensure human rights standards are observed in the current

government’s conduct of its campaigns against illegal drugs (Zambia);

133.55 Bring its methods of combating the use of illegal drugs into line with

international standards (Timor-Leste);

133.56 Continue to realign its national procedures to combat drug

trafficking with international standards (Egypt);

133.57 Enact effective legislation aligned with international standards to

combat the use of illegal drugs (Maldives);

133.58 Employ methods that adjust to international norms, including human

rights norms, to combat the consumption of illegal drugs (Guatemala);

133.59 Guarantee that all the Government’s methods of combating the use

of illegal drugs are brought into line with international standards (Estonia);

133.60 Strengthen international cooperation to combat illegal drugs and

human trafficking (China);

133.61 Speed up the process for adopting the non-discrimination law

(Georgia);

133.62 Adopt a comprehensive law against discrimination that is coherent

with its social inclusion programmes (Honduras);

133.63 Consolidate its recent progress through implementation of

comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation covering sex and sexual

orientation, gender identity and intersex status (Australia);

133.64 Eliminate discriminatory stereotypes based on gender (Honduras);

133.65 Strengthen efforts in the field of equitable justice through the

Philippine development plan (Morocco);

133.66 Continue efforts to ensure protection of human rights for inclusive

development and to reduce the level of poverty, particularly in rural areas and

among the vulnerable strata of the population (Uzbekistan);

133.67 Continue implementation of its 10-point socioeconomic agenda and

create skills-enhancement programmes on the basis of the human resources

road map for 2016-2022 (Pakistan);

133.68 Deepen its engagement and collaboration with communities in the

implementation of development projects and social policies which will ensure

better buy-in and social outcomes for the affected communities (Singapore);

133.69 Pursue steps made with the aim of addressing the effects of climate

change on the population (Algeria);

133.70 Examine the 2011-2028 national plan for climate change with a view

to addressing the challenges in its implementation in consultation with all

stakeholders (Haiti);

133.71 Re-examine the Mining Act of 1995 with a view to reinforcing its

environmental provisions and sustainable development practices, which will

help the mining industry to become one of the main contributors to the

country’s wealth (Haiti);

133.72 Continue its efforts to implement the Paris Agreement on climate

change, including through multilateral cooperation (Myanmar);

133.73 Redouble efforts to put in place an environmental regulatory policy

to ensure the implementation of this development of plan (Qatar);

133.74 Stop the implementation of counter-insurgency programmes that

target human rights defenders and civilians (Slovakia);

133.75 Continue efforts to combat terrorism, the drug trade and drug use,

within the framework of the Constitution, the law and international human

rights standards (Iraq);

133.76 Respect the right to life and maintain the abolition of the death

penalty (Haiti);

133.77 Consider not reinstating the death penalty, as per the bill introduced

before the Seventeenth Congress (Mozambique);

133.78 Abstain from reintroducing of the death penalty (Luxembourg);

133.79 Reconsider any attempt to reimpose capital punishment, with the aim

of not reintroducing the death penalty (Slovakia);

133.80 Preserve the right to life and do not bring back the use of the death

penalty as proposed in the death penalty bill (Liechtenstein);

133.81 Respect its obligations under international law and refrain from

reintroducing capital punishment (Republic of Moldova);

133.82 Refrain from reintroducing the death penalty, in accordance with its

international obligations, in particular those under the Second Optional

Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aimed at

the abolition of the death penalty (Switzerland);

133.83 Continue to uphold the implementation commitments as a State party

to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Romania);

133.84 Respect its obligations under the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and refrain from the plans

to reimpose the death penalty (Norway);

133.85 Uphold its international obligations and not reinstate the capital

punishment (Portugal);

133.86 Cease all steps to reintroduce the death penalty, which would be

contrary to its obligations under the Optional Protocol to the International

Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; urgently accept a visit from the Special

Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, without

preconditions or limitations; fully investigate and prosecute all cases of

extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances; take immediate steps to

combat torture in the criminal justice system, including torture in police

stations to extract confessions; and fully respect international human rights law

in its efforts to combat the trade in and use of illegal drugs (Ireland);

133.87 Respect its obligations under international law as a State party to the

Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Belgium);

133.88 Continue the implementation of the provisions of the Second

Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

aiming at the abolition of the death penalty, and abandon plans to restore the

death penalty as a legal punishment (Lithuania);

133.89 Continue its support for the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (New Zealand);

133.90 Maintain the abolition of death penalty in line with its obligations

under the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights (Czechia);

133.91 Fulfil the obligations assumed as a State party to the Second Optional

Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aimed at

the abolition of the death penalty, and oppose any attempt to reinstate capital

punishment (Uruguay);

133.92 Maintain its binding commitment to the Second Optional Protocol to

the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition

of the death penalty, thereby repealing legal propositions aiming at restoring

the death penalty (Brazil);

133.93 Abide by its obligations under the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Ukraine);

133.94 Abandon the plan to reintroduce the death penalty, which would be

against the international commitments of the country (France);

133.95 Refrain from introducing the death penalty in the national legal

system, also in respect of international obligations (Italy);

133.96 Do not reintroduce the death penalty, consistent with the Philippines’

obligations as a State party to the Second Optional Protocol to the International

Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Australia);

133.97 Refrain from reintroducing the death penalty (Canada);

133.98 Refrain from reintroducing the death penalty and from lowering the

minimum age of criminal responsibility (Bulgaria);

133.99 Maintain the protection of the right to life from conception to natural

death (Holy See);

133.100 Take steps to put an end to extrajudicial executions, enforced

disappearances, illegal arrests and acts of torture perpetrated by the police

corps, and private security or paramilitary groups, and to investigate actions of

the police dismantling all groups created in the margin of law (Costa Rica);

133.101 Guarantee the protection of all people against enforced

disappearances and guarantee the rights of persons with disabilities (Sudan);

133.102 Without delay, take measures to put an end to extrajudicial,

summary or arbitrary executions and prosecute the perpetrators of these acts

(France);

133.103 Establish necessary mechanisms to eradicate extrajudicial, summary

and arbitrary executions by bringing perpetrators to justice and intensifying

efforts to eradicate the use of torture and inhuman and degrading treatment

(Spain);

133.104 Strengthen efforts to stop extrajudicial killings and enforced

disappearances in the country (Poland);

133.105 Put an end to extrajudicial killings, including those related to the war

on drugs, enforced disappearances, illegal arrests and detention, torture,

harassment and other human rights violations (Slovakia);

133.106 Take immediate steps to stop extrajudicial killings and to conduct an

independent and impartial inquiry into all enforced disappearances and

extrajudicial killings so that the perpetrators of these crimes are brought to

justice (Netherlands);

133.107 Take concrete measures to stop extrajudicial killings and invite the

Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions to visit

the country without conditions (Lithuania);

133.108 End extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, illegal arrests

and detention, torture and harassment, including by effectively implementing

criminal prohibitions against extrajudicial killings (Canada);

133.109 Take all necessary measures to prevent extrajudicial killings and

enforced disappearances and carry out impartial investigations to hold

perpetrators accountable (Germany);

133.110 Immediately end extrajudicial executions and carry out an

independent and impartial investigation into all enforced disappearances and

extrajudicial executions in order to bring the authors of these crimes to justice

(Chile);

133.111 Immediately end the campaign of extrajudicial killings, which may

amount to crimes against humanity under international law (Ghana);

133.112 Protect and guarantee the right to life and to a fair trial also in the

context of the campaign against drug trafficking, and take all necessary steps to

guarantee a proportionate use of force by the security forces (Italy);

133.113 Take all necessary steps to ensure prompt, impartial and transparent

investigations into alleged unlawful killings and other abuses during anti-drug

operations (Hungary);

133.114 Condemn and put an end to unresolved homicides and enforced

disappearances (Uruguay);

133.115 Immediately stop all unlawful killings and incitement to carry out

killings in the name of the anti-drug campaign (Iceland);

133.116 Put an end to extrajudicial executions and torture, in particular in

the context of the fight against drugs (Luxembourg);

133.117 Make efforts to eliminate extrajudicial killings and enforced

disappearances, and intensify efforts to carry out prosecutions for such crimes

(Norway);

133.118 Publicly denounce extrajudicial killings and other abuses in the anti-

drug campaign (Iceland);

133.119 Take due measures to prevent extrajudicial killings in the country

and grant access to the Special Rapporteurs on extrajudicial, summary or

arbitrary executions and on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the

highest attainable standard of physical and mental health for impartial and

credible investigations (Bulgaria);

133.120 Implement effectively the law against torture, in particular in

sentences for cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment inflicted to drug

traffickers (Angola);

133.121 Further strengthen measures to fully eliminate torture and all forms

of ill-treatment at every level, including by establishing a national preventive

mechanism (Georgia);

133.122 Eliminate the obstacles that hinder the effective implementation of

the Anti-Torture Act and fully comply with articles 18 and 19 of the Act, which

foresee compensation and rehabilitation of victims (Chile);

133.123 Take all necessary measures to prevent torture and other cruel,

inhuman or degrading treatment in detention facilities, including through the

provision of legal safeguards for detainees and ensure effective investigations

into allegations of torture, as well as the prosecution and sentencing of

perpetrators (Austria);

133.124 Reject any incitement to violence in the context of the State-

sponsored campaign against illegal drugs and hold perpetrators of such

incitement accountable (Czechia);

133.125 Continue with strategies and programmes to put an end to violence

against vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, ensuring child

protection both online and offline (Bosnia and Herzegovina);

133.126 Take action to eradicate violence and discrimination against women

and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, primarily in

educational institutions (Mexico);

133.127 Take steps to meet the minimum standards for the treatment of

prisoners (New Zealand);

133.128 Improve detention facilities, in particular to address overcrowding

and sanitation problems (Republic of Korea);

133.129 Take action to reduce overcrowding in detention facilities and

provide separate detention facilities for child offenders (Uganda);

133.130 Strengthen the legal context, the institutions and the resources of the

judicial system to guarantee an independent judiciary (France);

133.131 Strengthen the independence of the judiciary and the capacity of the

judicial system (Timor-Leste);

133.132 Strengthen criminal justice reform efforts in order to ensure a speedy

and fair trial for all accused (United States of America);

133.133 Adopt measures to strengthen the administration of justice and the

national human rights commission, to enforce the action of the State against

organized crime (Costa Rica);

133.134 Continue its efforts on improving access to justice (Azerbaijan);

133.135 Strengthen the witness protection programme (Timor-Leste);

133.136 Ensure that all pretrial detainees are brought before a judge without

delay and expedite the cases of persons held under the Comprehensive

Dangerous Drugs Act (Liechtenstein);

133.137 Take further steps to eradicate impunity for killings (Croatia);

133.138 Undertake criminal justice reforms in line with international

standards to ensure prompt investigations and trials for alleged perpetrators of

human trafficking and to address extrajudicial killings and sexual violence

against women and children (Botswana);

133.139 Deepen the measures taken to ensure the fight against impunity and

guarantee to all victims of human rights violations compensation and the

establishment of all adequate mechanisms for rehabilitation (Argentina);

133.140 Strengthen investigative and prosecutorial bodies to ensure thorough

investigations into all killings, as well as the appropriate prosecution of

perpetrators (United States of America);

133.141 Put an end to impunity by ensuring impartial investigations and

bringing to justice those responsible of extrajudicial executions and torture

(Luxembourg);

133.142 End impunity and hold the perpetrators of enforced disappearance,

extrajudicial killings and torture to account and facilitate access to justice for

the victims of such violations (Slovenia);

133.143 Ensure thorough and independent investigations into violent deaths

and commit to bringing to justice those involved in abuses, including security

forces (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

133.144 Investigate thoroughly all extrajudicial killings (Portugal);

133.145 Ensure that extrajudicial killings are properly investigated and that

the persons responsible are held to account in accordance with due process and

the rule of law (Sweden);

133.146 Undertake a prompt and independent investigation into the

extrajudicial killings related to the fight against illegal drugs and ensure

accountability for perpetrators, as well as justice, remedy and reparations for

victims and their families (Czechia);

133.147 Appropriately investigate deaths which have occurred in the course

of police operations associated with the war on drugs (New Zealand);

133.148 Effectively fight impunity by investigating all cases of extrajudicial

killings and enforced disappearances committed by the police, the armed forces

or non-State actors and bring all perpetrators to justice (Austria);

133.149 Conduct impartial, immediate and effective investigations into all

presumed cases of extrajudicial or summary execution, including appropriate

documentation of each alleged offence, preservation of evidence and

compliance with procedural safeguards (Switzerland);

133.150 Thoroughly investigate killings by private armies and vigilantes

responsible for unsanctioned activities during the Government’s anti-drug

campaign and prosecute those responsible (Sierra Leone);

133.151 Investigate thoroughly all deaths, both those involving State security

forces allegedly killing suspects in self-defence and those perpetrated by

unknown assassins (Zambia);

133.152 Thoroughly investigate alleged extrajudicial killings and ensure

accountability (Australia);

133.153 Ensure a credible, independent investigation with international

involvement into unlawful killings (Iceland);

133.154 Conduct an independent and impartial inquiry into all enforced

disappearances and extrajudicial killings so that the perpetrators of these

crimes are brought to justice (Ghana);

133.155 Prosecute persons implicated in such unlawful killings, including

government officials and their affiliates (Iceland);

133.156 Investigate and fairly prosecute those implicated in torture or other

forms of mistreatment (Hungary);

133.157 Adopt measures to prevent, eliminate and end impunity for all forms

of sexual violence, including by improving the investigation and prosecution of

sexual offenders and ensuring that penalties are applied consistently (Canada);

133.158 Combat crimes committed against human rights defenders through

prompt, impartial and transparent investigations (Denmark);

133.159 Investigate and prosecute those responsible for using children in

pornography (Uruguay);

133.160 Guarantee the rights of children in the context of criminal

accountability and create the best alternative for improving the current system

of youth accountability, in compliance with the Convention on the Rights of the

Child (Estonia);

133.161 Reform the judicial system to provide rehabilitation to youth

offenders and implement the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (Kenya);

133.162 Implement effectively the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act as a

mandate and do not pass legislation lowering the minimum age of criminal

responsibility to avoid further criminalization of minor children and their ill-

treatment and abuse in detention facilities (Austria);

133.163 Strengthen the protection of children’s rights, including by

maintaining a minimum age of 15 years for criminal liability and raising the

age of sexual consent to 16 years (Canada);

133.164 Maintain the age of criminal responsibility for children as it

currently stands (Belgium);

133.165 Maintain the minimum age of criminal responsibility and do not

lower it (Sweden);

133.166 Reject any plans for lowering the minimum age of criminal

responsibility (Czechia);

133.167 Abandon the plan to reduce the age of penal responsibility, as it will

lead to prosecuting children like adults prior to giving them the means to

become responsible citizens (France);

133.168 Refrain from lowering the age of criminal responsibility in line with

commitments under the Convention of the Rights of the Child (Germany);

133.169 Do not lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility for children

(Kenya);

133.170 Take all necessary measures to promote the enjoyment of freedom of

expression, religion and civil liberties (Botswana);

133.171 Redouble efforts to protect freedom of opinion and belief and to

promote media freedom and the rights of journalists (Lebanon);

133.172 Create a safer working environment for journalists (Lithuania);

133.173 Take all necessary measures to provide adequate protection to

journalists and human rights defenders, in particular regarding enforced

disappearances and extrajudicial killings (Estonia);

133.174 Take all necessary measures to protect the life of human rights

defenders, journalists and other threatened persons (Germany);

133.175 Investigate all cases of threats, intimidation and attacks against

media personnel and ensure that those responsible are held accountable

(Latvia);

133.176 Guarantee the establishment of a safe and enabling environment for

the work of human rights defenders, specifically through the adoption of a law

for the protection and recognition of human rights defenders (Hungary);

133.177 Take steps to create and maintain in law and in practice a safe and

enabling environment for civil society and human rights defenders, including

by acknowledging publicly their important and legitimate role in the promotion

of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, by simplifying the process for

forming associations and by applying the good practices set out in Human

Rights Council resolution 32/31, and to request and accept technical assistance,

including from OHCHR, to fulfil these commitments (Ireland);

133.178 Establish an effective protection system for human rights defenders

and journalists and ensure the free exercise of their rights to freedom of

opinion, expression and association (Luxembourg);

133.179 Take necessary measures to provide adequate protection to

journalists and human rights defenders (Norway);

133.180 Protect more effectively human rights defenders and journalists,

especially through cooperation with civil society (Poland);

133.181 Ensure the protection of the rights of defenders, journalists and

members of the political opposition (Ukraine);

133.182 Promote a safe, enabling environment for the work of human rights

defenders through the adoption of a charter for the protection and recognition

of human rights defenders (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

Ireland);

133.183 Integrate indigenous and Muslim women in all realms of political and

public life (Angola);

133.184 Continue its endeavours to combat all forms of human trafficking

(Azerbaijan);

133.185 Continue efforts to eliminate trade in men, women and children in

order to exploit them in forced labour (Iraq);

133.186 Continue efforts to combat human trafficking and rehabilitate its

victims (Lebanon);

133.187 Continue to strengthen efforts to combat trafficking in people,

including under the strategic national plan of action to prevent online sexual

exploitation of children and the programme for rehabilitating and

reintegrating victims of human trafficking (Belarus);

133.188 Continue to step up efforts in the area of combating trafficking in

human beings, especially women and children (Bosnia and Herzegovina);

133.189 Continue working with bilateral, regional and international partners

to address trafficking in persons (Cuba);

133.190 Continue its national efforts to end human trafficking and sexual

exploitation (Egypt);

133.191 Continue to work with bilateral, regional and international partners

to address trafficking in persons (Indonesia);

133.192 Strengthen preventive cross-border anti-trafficking strategies and

their implementation (Sierra Leone);

133.193 Increase efforts aimed at combating trafficking in persons and all

forms of exploitation of children by, inter alia, taking the necessary measures to

prevent impunity for perpetrators (Holy See);

133.194 Take more effective measures to combat human trafficking, which

affects in particular women and children (Poland);

133.195 Continue its efforts to tackle human trafficking, especially of

children, through the effective implementation of the recovery and

reintegration programme for trafficked persons (Maldives);

133.196 Strengthen the fight against human trafficking in all forms, including

by strengthening inter-agency coordination to combat cybersex in the

community and by securing cooperation from the private sector to prevent and

respond to child online abuse (Netherlands);

133.197 Continue its efforts to combat trafficking in persons, including by

strengthening the legal framework and ensuring the safety and welfare of

victims of trafficking (Sri Lanka);

133.198 Develop a legal framework to explicitly address contemporary

methods of trafficking (Uganda);

133.199 Ratify the Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention of the

International Labour Organization and build criminal justice capabilities to

increase the investigation, prosecution and conviction of perpetrators of

modern slavery (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

133.200 Carry out further efforts to combat human trafficking (Uzbekistan);

133.201 Sustain and promote the family, based on marriage between a man

and a woman, as the natural and fundamental unit of society (Holy See);

133.202 Strengthen the domestic legal framework on job protection

(Indonesia);

133.203 Continue its efforts to address the problem of unemployment and

improve competitiveness in human resources through the effective

implementation of the current strategy for 2016-2020 (Libya);

133.204 Provide sufficient resources for poverty alleviation programmes

(Saudi Arabia);

133.205 Ensure that the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022, the

Conditional Cash Transfer Programme and the Sustainable Livelihood

Programme continue to be adequately financed and are more targeted in their

delivery, so that assistance can reach those most in need across the country

(Singapore);

133.206 Ensure adequate resources for poverty alleviation programmes, in

line with the commitments to pursue an inclusive growth (Viet Nam);

133.207 Ensure adequate resources for poverty alleviation programmes, in

line with the commitments to pursue inclusive economic development

(Cambodia);

133.208 Ensure adequate resources for poverty alleviation programmes, in

line with the commitment to ensure inclusive growth (Lao People’s Democratic

Republic);

133.209 Continue to pursue efforts to eradicate poverty and discrimination

against women (Yemen);

133.210 Continue to combat poverty and malnutrition, especially among

children (Lebanon);

133.211 Remain focused on combating poverty, particularly in areas where

poverty is most prevalent and widespread (Malaysia);

133.212 Continue its fight against poverty with a focus on upholding respect

and observance for human rights (Ecuador);

133.213 Ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the Responsible

Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act, in line with international obligations

regarding sexual and reproductive health and rights, by increasing access to

modern contraceptives (Brazil);

133.214 Ensure that Executive Order No. 12 pertaining to the Responsible

Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act is fully implemented in order to meet

the needs for modern family planning and to secure universal access to sexual

and reproductive health and rights (Sweden);

133.215 Continue to undertake efforts to implement the Responsible

Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act (New Zealand);

133.216 Ensure full and equal access to modern contraceptives, including in

rural and indigenous communities (Denmark);

133.217 Guarantee medical care for persons suffering from drug addiction

(France);

133.218 Further strengthen the community-based rehabilitation programme

for drug addicts, inpatients and outpatients for their integration into society

(Pakistan);

133.219 Continue to allocate the highest budgetary priority to public

education (Viet Nam);

133.220 Continue to allocate budgetary priority to public education

(Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

133.221 Continue to prioritize the budget for public education (Saudi

Arabia);

133.222 Continue to intensify efforts to further increase the enrolment of

children in schools (Brunei Darussalam);

133.223 Continue to enhance laws and policies of access to education for the

most disadvantaged learners, as done through the Alternative Learning System

(Holy See);

133.224 Given the positive strides made in public education, continue to

ensure access to quality education to vulnerable and marginalized groups

(Malaysia);

133.225 Continue its efforts to improve education in the country, to enhance

the number of girls enrolled in pre-primary and primary education and to

ensure a compulsory and free education (State of Palestine);

133.226 Take urgent measures to modify legislation stipulating the

precedence of the husband’s decisions over the wife’s decisions with respect to

common property, the exercise of parental authority and the custody of

children (Argentina);

133.227 Continue its work to strengthen its policies to further promote gender

equality and eliminate discrimination and violence against women (Brunei

Darussalam);

133.228 Carry on the efforts to combat all forms of discrimination and

violence against women (Tunisia);

133.229 Work towards the economic empowerment of women and their

enhanced presence in decision-making positions (Tunisia);

133.230 Approve the legal provisions that would make it possible to derogate

the articles of the Family Code stipulating the predominance of the husband’s

decision over that of the wife with regard to common property and the exercise

of paternal rights and the custody of children (Chile);

133.231 Continue working on measures to enable women to have effective

access to the justice system (Honduras);

133.232 Take immediate steps to permit abortion in cases where a woman’s

or a girl’s life or physical or mental health is in danger, where the pregnancy is

a result of rape or incest and in cases of fetal impairment, with a view to

decriminalizing abortion in the near future (Netherlands);

133.233 Take further steps to eliminate abuses of the rights of the child

(Republic of Korea);

133.234 Continue to strengthen the national framework for the protection of

children’s rights (Morocco);

133.235 Intensify efforts to eradicate all forms of violence against children

(Spain);

133.236 Carry on efforts to protect children, especially children of indigenous

populations (Tunisia);

133.237 Strengthen measures aimed at protecting children against violence

and all kinds of sexual exploitation (Algeria);

133.238 Amend the age of sexual consent from 12 to 16 years (Sweden);

133.239 Take prompt actions to protect children against sex abuse and

exploitation (Poland);

133.240 Make further efforts to protect children against all risks of sexual or

economic exploitation (Qatar);

133.241 Ensure that victims of grave violations receive timely, effective and

appropriate services through the monitoring, reporting and response system

for children affected by conflict (Belgium);

133.242 Take measures in order to fully guarantee the rights of children, in

particular with reference to the treatment of juveniles in the judicial system,

and to prevent and combat the involvement of children in armed conflicts, their

trafficking and their exploitation in the prostitution and pornography industry

(Italy);

133.243 Ensure that all legislative amendments affecting children’s rights

take into account the superior interest of the child in accordance with

international standards (Mexico);

133.244 Take the necessary legislative and other measures to prevent children

from being engaged in child labour (Montenegro);

133.245 Increase efforts to combat child labour, which is very often combined

with hazardous or dangerous conditions of work (Poland);

133.246 Improve the practical application and the incorporation of an

inclusive approach to the rights of persons with disabilities in the adoption of

the legislative measures to guarantee, in particular, equal access to public

services (Spain);

133.247 Strengthen labour and economic policies in favour of persons with

disabilities (Ecuador);

133.248 Continue its efforts to promote the rights of people with disabilities

and ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access to all public facilities

and services (State of Palestine);

133.249 Continue efforts in social and health insurance to the benefit of

children with disabilities (Tunisia);

133.250 Take necessary measures to preserve the ancestral lands of

indigenous peoples (Peru);

133.251 Continue the promotion and protection of the rights of migrant

workers at all levels, in particular through the agenda on migrants’ health (Sri

Lanka);

133.252 Continue to engage bilateral, regional and multilateral partners to

better protect the rights and welfare of migrants and members of their families

(Viet Nam);

133.253 Enhance its engagement with its partners to better protect the rights

and welfare of migrant workers and members of their families (Indonesia);

133.254 Continue to make concerted efforts to protect the rights of overseas

migrant workers (Nepal);

133.255 Develop a permanent resettlement approach for internally displaced

persons (Kenya);

133.256 Accede to and fully implement the 1961 Convention on the Reduction

of Statelessness and ensure that all otherwise stateless persons in the country

have access to a procedure that will facilitate the acquisition of a nationality

(Slovakia);

133.257 Continue to do all that is necessary to end statelessness, especially for

those living in areas that have experienced armed conflict before peace (Egypt).

134. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect

the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not

be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.

Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of the Philippines was headed by His Excellency Mr. Menardo I.

Guevarra, Senior Deputy Executive Secretary at the Office of the President and His

Excellency Alan Peter S. Cayetano, Chair of Foreign Relations Committee, Senate of the

Philippines, and composed of the following members:

• H.E. Evan P. Garcia, Co-Alternate Head of Delegation, Permanent Representative of

the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN and Other International

Organizations in Geneva;

• H.E. Pilar Juliana S. Cayetano, Co-Alternate Head of Delegation, Deputy Speaker

Delegation, House of Representatives of the Philippines;

• Hon. Severo S. Catura, Co-Alternate Head of Delegation, Undersecretary Delegation

Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat, Office of the President;

• Mr. Reynante B Orceo, Member, Undersecretary, Department of Justice;

• Mr. Isidro S. Lapena, Member, Director General, Philippine Drug Enforcement

Agency;

• Mr. Bayani S. Mercado, Member, Assistant Secretary, Department of Foreign

Affairs;

• Mr. Epimaco V. Densing, Member, Assistant Secretary, Department of Interior and

Local Government;

• Mr. Carlos Bernardo O. Abad Santos, Member, Assistant Secretary National

Economic Development Authority;

• Ms. Charito A. Zamora, Member, Assistant Secretary, Office of the Executive

Secretary, Office of the President;

• Ms. Maria Teresa T. Almojuela, Member, Deputy Permanent Representative

Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN and other International

Organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Enrico T. Fos, Member, Minister and Consul General, Permanent Mission of the

Philippines to the UN and Other International Organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Arnel G. Talisayon, Member, First Secretary and Consul, Permanent Mission of

the Philippines to the UN and Other International Organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Maria Elena Cristina D. Maningat, Member First Secretary and Consul,

Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN and other International

Organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Vanessa G. Bago-Llona, Member, Acting Director Office of the United Nations

and International Organizations, Department of Foreign Affairs;

• Ms. Sharon Johnette M. Agduma, Member Third Secretary and Vice Consul,

Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN and Other International

Organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Leocadio T. Trovela, Member, Director Department of Interior and Local

Government;

• Ms. Gladys F. Rosales, Member, Director Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency;

• Ms. Myrna Clara B. Asuncion, Member, Director National Economic Development

Authority;

• Mr. Masli A. Quilaman, Member, Director National Commission on Indigenous

Peoples;

• Ms. Gisella R. Mendoza, Member, State Counsel Department of Justice;

• Mr. Dennis A. Siervo, Member, Chief Superintendent, Philippine National Police

Human Rights Affairs Office;

• Mr. Marivil V. Valles, Member, Principal Assistant, Office of the United Nations

and Other International Organizations, Department of Foreign Affairs;

• Mr. Eduardo D. Esquivias, Member, Major, Judge Advocate General Office, Armed

Forces of the Philippines Human Rights Office;

• Mr. Maria Corazon Lucia V. Teoxon, Member, Head Executive Assistant, Office of

the Secretary Department of Health;

• Mr. Delmer R. Cruz, Member, Labor Attaché, Permanent Mission of the Philippines

to the UN and Other International Organizations in Geneva;

• Mr. Tito Marshall R. Fajardo, Member, Technical Assistant Presidential Human

Rights Committee Secretariat;

• Ms. Alnie Foja, Member, Legal Consultant, Office of the Secretary Department of

Social Welfare Development;

• Ms. MA. Chona S. Idul-Desimpele, Member, Attaché, Permanent Mission of the

Philippines to the UN and Other International Organizations in Geneva;

• Ms. Sarah Lou Ysmael Arriola, Member, Chief of Staff, Office of Sen. Alan Peter

Cayetano;

• Mr. Errol Angelito Bernardes Leones, Member, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of

Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano;

• Ms. Denya Gracia J. Uy-Anastacio, Member, Chief of Staff, Office of Rep. Pilar

Juliana Cayetano;

• Mr. Dexter Estacio, Member, Technical Officer, Office of Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano.