Adherence to International Human Rights and Humanitarian Laws
- The Philippines is committed to upholding human rights and humanitarian laws established in international treaties.
- Human rights laws apply during both peace and armed conflict.
- International Humanitarian Law specifically governs conduct during armed conflict or war.
Philippines' Commitment to the Four Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocol
- The Philippines is a Contracting Party to the Four Geneva Conventions of August 12, 1949:
- Protection of wounded and sick in armed forces on the field.
- Protection of wounded, sick, and shipwrecked armed forces at sea.
- Treatment of prisoners of war.
- Protection of civilian persons in times of war.
- The country also acceded to the Additional Protocol relating to the protection of victims of non-international armed conflicts on December 11, 1986.
- The Philippines endorses the principle of impartial humanitarian aid to all victims of war without discrimination.
Responsibilities of the Philippines as a Contracting Party
- The Philippines accepts direct responsibility for the application of IHL during armed conflicts involving the country.
Need for Enhanced Understanding Among Government and Law Enforcement Personnel
- Officials and personnel in government departments, law enforcement agencies, and local government units are encouraged to deepen their knowledge of IHL principles.
- Strengthening understanding supports promotion and protection of humanitarian principles.
Purpose of International Humanitarian Law Day
- The observance seeks to raise public consciousness about IHL.
- It promotes greater awareness of humanitarian principles related to armed conflict.
Government Directive for Observance and Program Implementation
- All concerned government departments and agencies are enjoined to observe International Humanitarian Law Day.
- Active support and participation in commemorative programs and activities are required.
- The Department of National Defense and the Department of Foreign Affairs are tasked to co-chair an ad-hoc committee to:
- Formulate and implement yearly commemorative activities.
- Collaborate with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Manila, the Philippine National Red Cross, and relevant NGOs and people’s organizations.
Budget Provisions for Activities
- Funding for yearly activities related to International Humanitarian Law Day shall be included in the annual appropriations of the Department of National Defense.
Formality and Enactment
- The declaration was issued by the President of the Philippines on July 31, 1999.
- The Executive Order formalizes the commitment to promote and uphold IHL principles through nationwide observance and collaboration with humanitarian organizations.