Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 225)
December 10, 1950, was designated as Human Rights Day in the Philippines by Proclamation No. 225 issued by President Elpidio Quirino.
Human Rights Day coincides with the second anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948.
The purpose is to call upon all citizens, officials, teachers, and other elements in the country to publicize, disseminate, display, and explain the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to promote respect and observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
All citizens, national, provincial and municipal officials, teachers in public and private schools, and all other elements in the country, whether public or private, local or foreign, are called upon to publicize and disseminate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The proclamation is based on the recognition of the inherent dignity, equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family, which are foundational to freedom, justice, and peace.
They have reaffirmed their faith in fundamental human rights, the dignity and worth of the human person, and the equal rights of men and women as stated in the United Nations Charter.
Member States have pledged to achieve international cooperation in promoting universal respect for and observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion.
Grave developments in international relations make it imperative to fittingly observe Human Rights Day to strengthen awareness and commitment to human rights.
The proclamation calls upon teachers in public and private schools and all other elements of society to disseminate and expound on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as part of their responsibility.