PRESS RELEASE

NYPM 35-2011

27 SEPTEMBER 2011

27 September 2011 United Nations, New York - The Philippines underscored the importance of the rule of law and pressed strongly for a rules-based regime in the West Philippine Sea during the General Debate of the 66 th session of the United Nations General Assembly here.

In his statement, Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Libran N. Cabactulan argued that “adherence to the rule of law provides stability and certainty in the conduct of relations between states.”

“For the rule of law is the bedrock on which the growth and development of our community of nations is built. And in instances of disputes – particularly of a territorial nature – the rule of law ensures peaceful settlement and resolution,” Ambassador Cabactulan emphasized.

Ambassador Cabactulan also reiterated the Philippines’ call and support for the establishment of guidelines that would ensure the welfare of al migrant workers.

He also called on the international community to renew its resolve to combat human trafficking. The Philippines is a founding member of the Group of Friends United against Human Trafficking, an informal association on UN Member States that seeks to help reinvigorate and consolidate the global fight against trafficking in persons.

“Aside from establishing rules to protect migrant workers and to prevent human trafficking, the global community needs to explore measures to more effectively assist developing countries in evacuating their nationals in instances of disaster or internal conflict,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Cabactulan announced to the General Assembly the Philippines’ nomination of Professor Dr. Miriam Defensor Santiago, an experienced trial judge and international law expert, to the International Criminal Court.

“Firm in the desire to contribute to global efforts to safeguard the world against impunity, the Philippines has fielded a candidate for election to the Court. We ask all our partners and friends to kindly support her candidature,” he said. END

Reference:

Robert E.A. Borje
Second Secretary
Legal Affairs, Press and Information and Interfaith Dialogue

Philippine Mission to the United Nations
556 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036
Telephone No. 212.764.1300 ext. 23