Article Links: https://pco.gov.ph/news-releases/
PBBM meets ICRC leader to boost cooperation, express support for International Humanitarian Law
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. received International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday for a courtesy call.
President Marcos and Spoljaric discussed the role of the Philippines in fostering a culture of respect for International Humanitarian Law in the Asia Pacific region and the importance of the Philippines’ voice in fostering peace and dialogue amidst ongoing humanitarian crisis and armed conflict around the world.
During the call, President Marcos reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to supporting the promotion of respect for international humanitarian law and its fundamental principles as a cornerstone of peace, security, and human dignity.
“Upholding international humanitarian law largely rests on the firm resolve of national governments. Ultimately, we bear the responsibility of translating international commitments into domestic policies and practices to protect the most vulnerable,” said the President.
Spoljaric highlighted how the Philippines’ leadership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) can help address urgent humanitarian crises and support dialogue for ceasefires in some of the world’s hardest-hit regions.
The courtesy call comes on the heels of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Asia Pacific Regional Conference last August 11 to 14, 2025, co-hosted by the Philippines and the ICRC. The event provided a platform for the Philippines to share its experience in establishing an Inter-Agency Committee on IHL last year through Executive Order 77 signed by the President.
To date, the Philippines is only one of six countries in Asia Pacific with a permanent national IHL committee.
The Philippines and ICRC share a long history of partnership since World War II, and have continued to work closely in providing humanitarian assistance across the country in response to the consequences of armed conflict, natural disasters, and other crises.
In the Philippines, ICRC’s work focuses on protecting civilians and those affected by conflict, visiting detention facilities and advocating humane treatment of prisoners, and restoring family links.
ICRC currently maintains offices in Manila, Cotabato, Zamboanga, Butuan, and the Visayas, and works closely with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), its leading partner since the 1970s.
ICRC is an impartial, neutral, and independent humanitarian organization established in 1863 and based in Geneva, Switzerland.
Its mission is to protect the lives and dignity of people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence, and to promote respect for international humanitarian law.
With about 18,000 staff working in around 100 countries, the ICRC responds to emergencies, supports victims of conflict, and works with governments, armed groups, and communities to uphold humanitarian principles. | PND
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