UN Special Rapporteur visit to allow PH to show 'flourishing' democracy -DFA

The upcoming visit of United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur Irene Khan will give the Philippines an opportunity to demonstrate its "flourishing democracy," the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Saturday.

"This visit is an opportunity for the Special Rapporteur to appreciate the well-rooted and flourishing democracy of the Philippines, as the oldest democratic Republic in Asia, as seen in the vibrant media landscape and civic space," the DFA said in a statement.

The DFA added that through dialogues and meetings with government, media, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders, Khan will see the government's transparency and progressive agenda regarding the respect to the promotion and protection of freedom of speech and expression.

"This visit signifies the open, sustained, and sincere cooperation of the Philippine government with bilateral and regional partners and the UN, on many fronts, where the country promotes its human rights-based development agenda and good governance as well as its contributions in strengthening global norms to uphold human rights and dignity," it said.

Khan is UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression. 

According to the agency, Khan is the third special rapporteur to visit the Philippines following the visits of special rapporteur for the sale and exploitation of children Mama Fatima Singhateh in November 2022 and the special rapporteur for Climate Change and Human Rights Ian Fry in November 2023.

"The Philippines takes pride in its human rights agenda, built over decades and across different administrations, which has set important benchmarks in the protection and promotion of the rights of various marginalized communities, including migrant workers, women, children, indigenous peoples, refugees, stateless persons, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups," the DFA said.

Khan will be in the country from January 23 to February 2.

Earlier this week, the Department of Justice said it will also meet with Khan and discuss initiatives that have fortified the foundations of justice, freedom of expression, and the rule of law in the country.

“We take immense pride in the reforms we have implemented, and it is through the President's directive and unwavering commitment that these changes have been realized,” said Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla in a press statement.

“This visit is a testament to the strides we have taken as a nation. Ang mga ito ay alinsunod sa kanyang pangitain ng ‘bagong Pilipinas’—isang bansang umuunlad at nagpapahalaga sa kalayaan, hustisya, at seguridad ng bawat mamamayan,” he said. 

 —Jamil Santos/ VAL, GMA Integrated News