EU seeing progress with PH human rights situation, DTI’s Pascual says

The European Union has seen progress in the human rights situation in the country, Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual said Wednesday.

Pascual mentioned this following a three-week investment roadshow in Europe.

"Yeah, they have seen progress, it’s not as if nothing has happened to address the issues that they are concerned with. And you are all aware of this, you know they are well-published. They are actually the results of those matters that are of interest to the EU," Pascual said at a Palace briefing.

The EU GSP+ agreement —which is set to expire in December 2023— grants the Philippines zero duties on 6,274 locally-made products, as long as the country meets the requirements regarding human and labor rights, the environment, and good governance.

The European Commission, an executive arm of the EU, is responsible for making proposals for the European Parliament. It is now up for the European Parliament, the EU’s legislative arm, to decide on the proposal to extend the GSP+ scheme for the Philippines.

Pascual said that during his trip, he was able to meet with the EU officials to discuss two crucial agenda items, including the renewal of the GSP+ for the Philippines and the resumption of talks on a free trade agreement between the EU and the Philippines.

"I was fortunate to meet with the EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. And in my business meetings, I emphasized the significant policy reforms the Philippine government has been undertaking to create an enabling, a friendly business environment for foreign investments in our country," Pascual said.

Members of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights were allowed to visit the country early this year as part of Philippines and the EU's "open and regular engagement on human rights."

The delegation had courtesy calls with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual "and participated in a dialogue with executive agencies." — RSJ, GMA Integrated News