By Maricel V. Cruz
Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre has rallied his colleagues behind measures meant to assist people in crisis situations beyond Philippine borders, notably refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless persons.
Acidre made the appeal in a privilege speech ahead of the observance of the World Humanitarian Day on August 19.
Acidre said the Philippines, as a country that has a long history with calamities, disasters and war, has “honed its abilities to respond swiftly and efficiently to crises.”
“However, our humanitarian work must not be confined within our 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. As members of the international community, we have a moral responsibility to contribute to the healing process and extend a helping hand to those who cry out for aid,” he added.
Acidre, a former country director of an international humanitarian organization, described victims of crises as refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons and others.
“I, therefore, call on our esteemed colleagues to proactively supportthe passage of several proposed legislative measures now pending before Congress, which aim to provide comprehensive protection for refugees, asylum seekers, stateless applicants, stateless persons, and populations at risk of statelessness,” he stressed.
“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.
Acidre said that according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), there are 108.4 million people worldwide who have fled due to persecution, conflict and violence, among others, as of end of 2022, which is 19 million more compared to 2021.
The Philippines, he continued, 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 noted.
“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. Our commitment to international humanitarian aid not only aligns with our values but also fosters goodwill and diplomatic ties, strengthening our position as a compassionate and responsible nation,” he said.