United Nations A/HRC/36/12

General Assembly Distr.: General

18 July 2017

Original: English

Human Rights Council

Thirty-sixth session
11-29 September 2017
Agenda item 6
Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal

Periodic Review*
Philippines

* The annex is being circulated without formal editing, in the language of submission only.

GE.17-12107(E)

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Introduction
1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance
with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-seventh session from 1 to 12
May 2017. The review of the Philippines was held at the 11th meeting, on 8 May 2017. The
delegation of the Philippines was headed by the Senior Deputy Executive Secretary in the
Office of the President, Menardo I. Guevarra, and the Chair of the Foreign Relations
Committee, Senate of the Philippines, Alan Peter S. Cayetano. At its 17th meeting, held on
11 May 2017, the Working Group adopted the report on the Philippines.
2. On 13 February 2017, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of
rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of the Philippines: Kenya, Paraguay and
Switzerland.
3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution
5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents
were issued for the review of the Philippines:
(a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with
paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/27/PHL/1);
(b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High
Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b)
(A/HRC/WG.6/27/PHL/2);
(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c)
(A/HRC/WG.6/27/PHL/3).
4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, Czechia, Germany, Mexico, the
Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America was transmitted to the
Philippines through the troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the universal
periodic review.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The delegation stated that Filipinos believed that people were created in the image of
God and that there could be no compromise on human rights and dignity. Filipinos also
believed in accountability.
6. The President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, was at the helm of the
Government because the people had demanded real change. Filipinos longed for the rule of
law, equality and respect for the human rights of all people regardless of faith, social status,
sexual orientation, age, disability or ethnicity, or of whether they were from urban or rural
areas.
7. The Government was committed to meeting its obligations arising from the treaties
it had ratified and to integrating a human rights agenda into its development initiatives.
Guided by the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022, the Government had adopted a
culture- and gender-sensitive paradigm and a human rights-based approach to public
service. A campaign against illegal drugs was being pursued to preserve lives and to
prevent the country from turning into a narco-State. At all times, the Government upheld
the rule of law and President Duterte had adopted a policy of zero tolerance for abuse by
law enforcers. The Government had adopted a holistic and balanced approach to addressing
crime and illegal drugs. In addition to strengthening law enforcement and judicial
mechanisms, it encouraged private sector participation to ensure more effective and
sustainable rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for drug users who wished to stop
using.

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8. The situation of illegal drugs could only be understood by recognizing the

relationship between illegal drugs, violent crime and poverty. The violence was associated
with drug lords and drug suppliers. In respect of the government campaign against illegal
drugs, “alternate facts” were being spread by critics and widely quoted by the media. The
delegation sought to correct those “facts” by stating the following. Firstly, those critics had
changed the definition of extrajudicial killings, thereby deceiving the public and the media
into believing that there had been a sudden wave of State-sponsored extrajudicial killings.
There had been a deliberate attempt to include all homicides related to the campaign against
illegal drugs as extrajudicial killings and to say that they were State-sponsored, which was
not true. Secondly, the 1.266 million drug pushers and users who had surrendered were
being rehabilitated. Thirdly, during the six-year period prior to the Duterte administration,
93,197 drug operations had been conducted while barely 10 months into the Duterte
administration, 53,503 such operations had been conducted. Fourthly, 64,917 drug-related
arrests had been made. Fifthly, of the 9,432 homicide cases, 2,692 deaths had resulted from
presumed legitimate law enforcement operations. While the increase in police operations
had resulted in more people surrendering, there were also people who violently resisted
arrest, which in turn led to more deaths. Although deaths arising from law enforcement
operations were presumed to be legitimate, they were automatically investigated.
9. The Duterte administration had doubled the budget of the Commission on Human
Rights. President Duterte had institutionalized Executive Order No. 2, also known as the
“Freedom of information order”, something no other Philippine president had done, and
installed a direct telephone line to the Office of the President for complaints from citizens.
10. The Government was in the process of drafting its human rights action plan for the
next five years. A human rights-based approach to development would be implemented.
11. The Government supported the universal periodic review mechanism and the United
Nations human rights system. A decision on which recommendations to accept would be
taken against the backdrop of national challenges.
12. The universal periodic review was effective because the Human Rights Council had
been successful in insulating it from polarization. While the special procedures of the
Council were often effective, they sometimes did more harm than good. The delegation
referred to a tweet by the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary
executions, Agnes Callamard, which suggested she was impartial and unfair. Invitations to
special rapporteurs would be extended at an appropriate time, provided they proved their
independence and willingness to engage in a constructive manner.
13. The Philippines was addressing a communist rebellion, unrest, a rebellion in the
south, inequality and social injustice, control of the economy by the political elite and
criminal and drug syndicates that acted with impunity. Terrorism was a national, regional
and international threat.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

14. During the interactive dialogue, 95 delegations made statements. Recommendations

made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
15. Viet Nam welcomed the recent ratification of the Convention against Trafficking in
Persons, Especially Women and Children, of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(ASEAN).
16. Yemen noted that the Philippines had signed the Optional Protocol to the
Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or
Punishment and implemented human rights programmes for police officers and on the
eradication of poverty.
17. Zambia welcomed the acceptance of several recommendations from the first and
second cycles of the universal periodic review but noted that most of the recommendations
had not been implemented.

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18. Algeria appreciated the plans to improve the living standards of the population,
particularly of women and children from poor families.
19. Angola noted the progress made through the adoption of laws to fulfil the
obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
20. Argentina congratulated the Philippines for adopting the Philippine Development
Plan for 2017-2022, especially the section on the rights of women.
21. Australia expressed concern at reports of extrajudicial killings associated with the
war on drugs and the involvement of the national police.
22. Austria commended the Philippines for the measures on modern family planning
and poverty reduction but expressed concern at plans to reintroduce the death penalty and
the increase in extrajudicial killings.
23. Azerbaijan recognized the progress made in protecting vulnerable groups,
combating trafficking in human beings and ensuring the rule of law.
24. Bangladesh noted the 10-point socioeconomic agenda aimed at combating poverty,
efforts to protect vulnerable groups, support to education, the programme against child
labour and policies to combat human trafficking.
25. Belarus commended the Philippines for the measures implemented to guarantee
socioeconomic rights, including the development of social support, and to combat human
trafficking.
26. Belgium commended the Government for creating a monitoring, reporting and
response system for children affected by armed conflict and for further defining
responsibilities of government agencies responding to violations against children.
27. Bosnia and Herzegovina noted the Government’s focus on improving the protection
of civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights. It welcomed the
efforts made in relation to women’s rights.
28. Botswana noted the commitment to promoting human rights but was concerned by
reports of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and heightened campaigns against
illegal drug-related activities resulting in deaths.
29. Brazil welcomed efforts to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and
gender identity but was concerned about the alleged number of disappearances and
extrajudicial killings.
30. Brunei Darussalam noted efforts to expand access to quality education through the
enactment of several laws and progress in the empowerment of women and promotion of
gender equality.
31. Bulgaria commended the Philippines for its efforts to reduce poverty and
appreciated its accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture.
32. Cambodia welcomed the implementation of most of the accepted recommendations
from previous reviews. It commended the 10-point socioeconomic agenda aimed at poverty
reduction.
33. Canada urged the Philippines to dismantle and disarm paramilitary groups, to stop
the militarization of the ancestral lands of indigenous peoples and improve access by
indigenous peoples to health and social services.
34. Chad highlighted the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022, which advocated
the use of a human rights approach in the public sector, in the allocation of funds for
poverty reduction and in social services programmes.
35. Chile welcomed the progress made in the ratification of international human rights
instruments. It was however concerned about the persistence of extrajudicial executions and
enforced disappearances.
36. China expressed support for the campaign against illegal drugs.

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37. Costa Rica was concerned about the war on drugs, as it incited extrajudicial
executions, enforced disappearances and torture.
38. Croatia encouraged a more proactive approach that linked the principle of the rule of
law to the socioeconomic development agenda in order to achieve a more comprehensive
integration of human rights norms.
39. Cuba highlighted the existence of a human rights commission with a mandate to
investigate human rights violations, as well as the work of the commission on women to
counter discrimination against women.
40. Czechia acknowledged the efforts and accomplishments in closing the gender gap.
41. Denmark expressed concern about the fact that some recent initiatives to combat
crime, including the war on drugs, might lead to impunity and violations of human rights. It
also expressed concern about the high number of attacks on human rights defenders.
42. Ecuador praised the actions taken to protect domestic workers, including the joint
operations handbook, and the commitments to protect the environment through a national
plan and specific laws.
43. Egypt urged the Philippines to uphold international human rights norms in the
context of the war on drugs. It noted the peace plan between the Government and the Moro
Islamic Liberation Front.
44. Estonia noted the efforts made by the Philippines to meet its human rights
obligations since its previous review.
45. France raised concerns regarding the proliferation of extrajudicial executions and
inquired about the national surveillance mechanisms that existed in that area.
46. Georgia called on the Philippines to refrain from restoring the death penalty and to
issue a standing invitation to the special procedure mandate holders.
47. Germany expressed deep concern about reports of human rights violations in the
context of the so-called war on drugs.
48. Ghana stated that, despite the acceptance by the Philippines of 11 recommendations
on putting an end to extrajudicial killings and strengthening accountability for those crimes
at the previous review, such killings remained widespread.
49. Guatemala acknowledged the accession by the Philippines to the Optional Protocol
to the Convention against Torture. It expressed concern at reports that the Government’s
campaign against drugs had resulted in the persecution and killing of drug users and drug
traffickers.
50. Haiti welcomed the success of the economic programmes in the Philippines.
51. The Holy See referred to reports of trafficking in Philippine men, women and
children for labour exploitation. It also expressed concern about extrajudicial killings and
enforced disappearances.
52. Honduras highlighted the progress made in the areas of social inclusion,
participation of women in decision-making and youth education.
53. Hungary expressed concern about the fact that since President Duterte had taken
office and announced a campaign targeting those allegedly involved in drug-related
activities, over 7,000 people had been killed by the police and unknown individuals. It also
referred to the threats faced by human rights defenders.
54. Iceland expressed alarm over the high rate of killings since the election of President
Duterte and referred to the allegations of enforced disappearances, torture and other ill-
treatment by police officers.
55. Indonesia commended the Philippines for completing the human resources road map
for 2016-2022, the significant budget allocated to public education and the commitment to
fighting human trafficking.

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56. Iraq praised the Philippines for its national report and commended it for the
reproductive rights act and the recovery care provided in the fight against drugs.
57. Ireland appreciated the commitment to human rights but shared its deep concern at
the marked deterioration in the rule of law since the previous review.
58. Italy welcomed and encouraged further efforts in the field of human rights.
59. Japan noted social problems involving violence against women. It offered its support
for the development of drug treatment facilities and the formulation of treatment
programmes.
60. Kenya commended the Philippines for the steps taken since its first and second
reviews and urged it to continue to implement the remaining recommendations.
61. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic commended the Philippines for taking
measures to implement the recommendations arising from previous reviews and welcomed
the progresses made in protecting the rights of women.
62. In response to questions and comments, the delegation of the Philippines stated that,
pursuant to Administrative Order No. 163, non-governmental and civil society
organizations had been encouraged to join the efforts of the Government in promoting
compliance with human rights obligations. Human rights defenders participated in
congressional hearings on the enactment of laws that affected human rights and the
enactment of a law defining their rights was under review.
63. The Government respected the independence of the Commission on Human Rights.
The President appointed the members of the Commission through a selection process that
gave weight to endorsements mostly from non-governmental organizations. The budget of
the Commission for 2016-2017 had almost doubled.
64. The Government had established an inter-agency committee to resolve cases of
enforced disappearances, torture and other grave violations of the rights to life, liberty and
security of person. According to the national definition, extrajudicial killings only involved
victims who were members of cause-oriented advocacy groups. Crimes falling outside that
definition were treated as regular crimes.
65. An inter-agency committee addressed trafficking in persons, including involuntary
servitude. The ASEAN Convention against Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and
Children, had been ratified in 2017 and a “child protection compact” had been concluded
with a third country to advance the campaign against trafficking in children.
66. Individuals meeting the required criteria continued to avail themselves of the
Witness Protection, Security and Benefit Programme.
67. The protection and welfare of vulnerable and marginalized groups such as
indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, women, children and older persons were at
the top of the administration’s agenda and a package of laws addressing their various needs
was being considered.
68. Since the previous review, a number of laws had been enacted, including a foster
care act and a law mandating emergency relief and protection for children before, during
and after disasters and emergencies. The Universal Health Care Act and the Sin Tax
Reform Law had been strengthened.
69. Measures ensuring the equal rights of wives in relation to property, among other
issues, were pending. An executive order had been issued to fully implement the
reproductive health law. Progress had been made in implementing the Responsible
Parenthood and Reproductive Health Programme and there had been a significant increase
in the national contraception prevalence rate and in the provision of free and lifelong
antiretroviral therapy for pregnant and breastfeeding women with HIV.
70. The police had implemented an internal mechanism to ensure that personnel
responsible for human rights violations such as torture were disciplined. The doctrine of
command responsibility had been introduced. Proper procedures were being observed to
ensure that torture was not used to extract confessions during investigations.

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71. Prison congestion was being addressed through various measures, including a
paralegal programme.
72. A specific law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation was
being pursued. However, there were statutes, local government ordinances and
jurisprudence that addressed discrimination and hate crimes, including on the grounds of
sexual orientation and gender identity.
73. The Kindergarten Education Act and the Enhanced Basic Education Act had led to
an increase in enrolment among indigenous peoples and a decline in the dropout rate. Also,
an increase in the budget for basic education reform had increased enrolment among
working learners and marginalized children.
74. Latvia encouraged the Philippines to use the expertise of the special procedures and
expressed concern about the rising death toll from extrajudicial executions owing to the war
on drugs.
75. Lebanon welcomed the campaign against drugs, which had had positive effects on
the level of crime.
76. Libya appreciated the efforts made to combat corruption, crime and illegal drug use
and the determination of the Philippines to address the challenges of poverty reduction and
implement policies and programmes for sustainable development.
77. Liechtenstein expressed concern at the proposal to reinstate the death penalty and at
the persistence of appalling conditions of detention.
78. Lithuania acknowledged the positive steps taken to strengthen human rights
standards but expressed concern about the extrajudicial killings and the intention to
reinstate the death penalty.
79. Luxembourg expressed concern about the human rights situation, particularly about
the extrajudicial executions within the framework of the fight against drugs and the
allegations of torture of civilians.
80. Malaysia commended the Philippines for its human rights achievements and, as a
fellow ASEAN member, recognized the significant role of the Philippines in the pursuit of
a common human rights agenda in the region.
81. The Maldives was encouraged by the efforts to promote gender equality and
recognized the efforts made by the Philippines to ensure a better quality of education.
82. Mexico hailed the political peace agreement in Mindanao, the actions to assist
displaced people and the enactment of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive
Health Act.
83. Montenegro noted the efforts to protect children’s rights but regretted that a high
number of children were engaged in child labour. It expressed concern at the extrajudicial
killings of suspected drugs dealers.
84. Morocco commended the Philippines for initiatives to promote socioeconomic rights
through poverty reduction programmes, improve access to education and promote
employment, as well as for its action to combat human trafficking.
85. Mozambique noted with appreciation the implementation of the 10-point
socioeconomic agenda, which had led to a drastic reduction in poverty, and commended the
progress achieved on gender equality.
86. Myanmar stated that the response to the threat posed by illegal drug use should be
left to the Government and took positive note of recent measures with regard to the
environment.
87. Nepal welcomed the initiatives to further promote the rights to health and education
and noted efforts to eliminate the worst forms of child labour, combat human trafficking
and protect the rights of migrant workers.

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88. The Netherlands commended the Philippines for the impressive measures taken in
the fight against online sexual exploitation and human trafficking. It expressed concern
about the high number of extrajudicial executions.
89. New Zealand commended the Philippines for ratifying the Second Optional Protocol
to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the
death penalty, and for enacting the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act.
90. Norway appreciated the efforts and commitment to work for peace and encouraged
continuation of reforms to strengthen workers’ rights and combat corruption.
91. Pakistan appreciated the creation of the National Anti-Environmental Crime Task
Force and the implementation of poverty reduction programmes, the Sustainable Livelihood
Programme and a comprehensive and integrated social services programme.
92. Peru acknowledged the progress made in the areas of health, education and housing.
It noted the commitment to sustainable development.
93. Poland welcomed the adoption of the Children’s Emergency Protection and Relief
Act, which aimed to facilitate the reunification of separated children and the training of
emergency responders in child protection.
94. Portugal was concerned about plans to restore the death penalty more than a decade
after it had been abolished and about the ongoing anti-drug campaign.
95. Qatar noted the progress made, particularly in relation to economic, social and
cultural rights, and appreciated the development action plan, as it took a holistic approach
to development on the basis of human rights.
96. The Republic of Korea noted concerns about the current situation of civil and
political rights and stated that human rights should be respected at all times.
97. The Republic of Moldova encouraged the Philippines to place the protection of the
fundamental rights of all persons at the core of every policy and action. It was concerned
about initiatives to reinstate capital punishment.
98. Romania stated that the implementation of supported recommendations from the
previous review demonstrated a commitment to human rights. It commended the
Philippines for its human rights-based campaign to eliminate the drug menace.
99. The Russian Federation commended the Philippines for enacting legislation in the
areas of health care, education and labour, and welcomed the working quota for persons
with disabilities and the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022.
100. Saudi Arabia commended the Philippines for its poverty alleviation strategy and
relative plan, from which about 4 million poor households benefited.
101. Sierra Leone commended the Philippines for sustained efforts aimed at improving
the lives of its peoples, including the Sustainable Livelihood Programme. It noted efforts to
address the rights of women, including through the Magna Carta of Women.
102. Slovakia noted that various human rights laws related to recommendations arising
from the previous review had been passed. It was concerned about reported initiatives to
reinstate capital punishment.
103. Slovenia was concerned about reports on enforced disappearance and extrajudicial
killings in the name of the war against drugs and reminded the Philippines of its
commitments under international human rights law.
104. Spain welcomed the mechanism established by the Commission on Human Rights to
address human rights complaints, as well as the legislation on protecting children in
emergency situations.
105. Sri Lanka noted the policies and programmes that had been developed to strengthen
the rights of migrant workers at the national level, especially the assistance provided to
Filipinos working overseas through the Assistance to Nationals and Legal Assistance Fund.

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106. The State of Palestine welcomed the efforts to improve education and commended
the steps taken to promote the rights of people with disabilities, including by developing a
national action plan.
107. The Sudan welcomed the “green job creation” programme to protect the
environment, as well as the accession to the ASEAN Convention against Trafficking in
Persons, Especially Women and Children, and the Domestic Workers Convention, 2011
(No. 189), of the International Labour Organization.
108. Sweden was concerned that 7.3 million women in the Philippines had an unmet need
for modern contraceptives, as estimated by 2016 government data.
109. Switzerland was gravely concerned at reports indicating that many extrajudicial
executions were being carried out and at the legislative steps under way to reintroduce the
death penalty.
110. Thailand applauded the protection of vulnerable groups, the implementation of the
United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-custodial Measures
for Women Offenders (the Bangkok Rules), efforts to combat human trafficking and
provide assistance to victims and the implementation of the “Freedom of information
order”.
111. Timor-Leste noted the adoption of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive
Health Act, the Food Staples Sufficiency Programme, the Sustainable Livelihood
Programme and efforts to increase gender sensitivity in the courts.
112. Tunisia welcomed the accession of the Philippines to the Optional Protocol to the
Convention against Torture and the programmes to combat poverty.
113. Uganda was encouraged by the commitment to achieve inclusive growth under the
Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022 and the 10-point socioeconomic agenda.
114. Ukraine respected the commitment to international conventions and encouraged the
Philippines to take measures to improve the human rights situation, including in the
criminal justice system and in respect of the rights of children and persons with disabilities.
115. The United Kingdom expressed concern about the high death toll associated with the
campaign against illegal drugs and about plans to reinstate the death penalty and to lower
the age of criminal responsibility, among other things.
116. The United States of America stressed the importance of investigating the deaths
associated with the counter-narcotics campaign.
117. Uruguay welcomed the efforts to protect victims of human trafficking and
achievements in the fight against discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation
and gender identity.
118. Uzbekistan noted the accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against
Torture.
119. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela welcomed the efforts in the fight against
poverty and the campaign against illicit drugs.
120. Gabon praised the significant progress made in promoting and protecting human
rights since the previous review.
121. Singapore commended the Philippines for its efforts to pursue social justice, achieve
inclusive growth and reduce inequality.
122. In relation to violence against women, the delegation of the Philippines stated that
guidelines had been issued at the village level for the establishment of points of contact
where victims could go to receive immediate help.
123. The delegation of the Philippines reported that an inter-agency committee on
children in armed conflict had been created in 2013. There was also a monitoring, reporting
and response system for grave violations of children’s rights in situations of armed conflict.

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124. The Juvenile Justice Welfare Act had been strengthened. Local government units
were required to appoint social workers to assist children in conflict with the law, among
others.
125. The programme against child labour had recorded a 47.9 per cent decrease in
children involved in labour, had awarded child labour-free certificates to establishments
and closed establishments engaging minors in hazardous work. Project Angel Tree
provided social assistance to children who had been subjected to child labour.
126. The Government had issued Department Order No. 174, which reaffirmed workers’
constitutional and statutory right to security of tenure by prohibiting “labour-only
contracting” (an arrangement whereby a contractor or subcontractor merely recruits,
supplies or places workers to perform a job or work for a principal) and reinforced workers’
rights in terms of labour standards, self-organization and collective bargaining. A review of
the enforcement framework would be undertaken.
127. Safeguarding the rights of Philippine workers abroad was a priority. The Philippine
Overseas Employment Administration regulated the overseas recruitment industry. The
Philippines had bilateral labour agreements with 31 countries of destination. Returning
workers were offered reintegration seminars and training.
128. The armed forces implemented the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan”
(Cooperation), which had been subsumed by the Development Support and Security Plan
“Kapayapaan” (Freedom). Both Plans focused on support for nation-building, civil military
cooperation, peacebuilding and military action against terrorists and other armed groups.
Military operations were only conducted in areas where there had been threats endangering
the safety of the people.
129. Executive Order No. 264 had led to the creation of the Citizens Armed Force
Geographical Units to assist the military in helping address local insurgency threats in
operations during disasters and calamities and in socioeconomic development projects. The
Citizens Armed Force was not a paramilitary force. A national task force had been created
to disband private armed groups in Bangsamoro and in the adjacent Regions 9 and 12.
130. The collective rights of indigenous peoples were being protected by the Indigenous
Peoples Rights Act. There had been no forced evictions of indigenous peoples owing to
mining operations. Ancestral domains could not be accessed by mining companies without
the free, prior and informed consent of indigenous peoples. That prohibition was also
applicable to the armed forces, except in “hot pursuit” operations. The Philippine
Development Plan for 2017-2022 raised awareness of the rights of indigenous peoples.
131. Recommendations relating to the death penalty would be discussed with the leaders
of Congress. The Government was committed to ending killings and supressing, to the
extent possible, crime caused by the consumption of illegal drugs, corruption and poverty.
132. In summary, the delegation reiterated that the Philippines consistently maintained a
culture of respect for human rights; relevant mechanisms and institutions to enable
compliance with treaty obligations were in place and functioned properly; the Philippines
encouraged inclusiveness in complying with its human rights obligations by encouraging
the participation of all stakeholders; the Philippines continued to make significant strides in
promoting and protecting the human rights of vulnerable sectors of society; and there was
no State policy promoting, sanctioning or encouraging extrajudicial killings, as all law
enforcement operations in pursuit of the anti-illegal drug campaign were conducted within
the boundaries of the law, as instructed by President Duterte.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

133. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue and listed
below will be examined by the Philippines, which will provide responses in due time,
but no later than the thirty-sixth session of the Human Rights Council:
133.1 Ratify all conventions to which the country is not yet a party
(Gabon);

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133.2 Ratify and implement without delay the International Convention for
the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (France);
133.3 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons
from Enforced Disappearance (Angola) (Iraq) (Japan) (Kenya) (Montenegro)
(Sierra Leone);
133.4 Consider acceding to the International Convention for the Protection
of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, recognizing the competence of its
Committee (Uruguay);
133.5 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of All Persons
from Enforced Disappearance and the Optional Protocol to the International
Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal);
133.6 Promptly ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the
Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples
Convention, 1989 (No. 169), of the International Labour Organization
(Guatemala);
133.7 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the
Child on a communications procedure (Slovakia);
133.8 Adhere to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of
the Child on a communications procedure (Croatia);
133.9 Ratify and adapt its national legislation to the Arms Trade Treaty
(Guatemala);
133.10 Uphold the human rights mechanisms and the special procedures
(Sudan);
133.11 Cooperate with special procedures by extending a standing invitation
to them (Peru);
133.12 Extend a standing invitation to all special procedure mandate holders
(Latvia);
133.13 Accept without prior condition the request for a visit by the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions and cooperate
with her fully (France);
133.14 Extend an invitation to the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial,
summary or arbitrary executions for an official visit in line with United Nations
terms of reference without any further delay (Germany);
133.15 Allow access to the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or
arbitrary executions and remove conditions on her proposed visit that could
compromise her impartiality (Ghana);
133.16 Permit the requested visit by the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial,
summary or arbitrary executions (Hungary);
133.17 Respond positively and unconditionally to the request of the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions to visit the
country (Latvia);
133.18 Make public the findings and implement the recommendations of the
Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or
Degrading Treatment or Punishment arising from its visit to the country in
2015 (Liechtenstein);
133.19 Consider establishing or strengthening a national mechanism
responsible for coordination, implementation, reporting and follow-up, in line
with the critical elements (best practices) of the OHCHR global study and guide
concerning national mechanisms for reporting and follow-up (Portugal);

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133.20 Make an effort to implement all the accepted recommendations

(Zambia);
133.21 Continue its different reforms for the well-being and the full
enjoyment of human rights by its population (Chad);
133.22 Ensure the precedence of provisions of international human rights
treaties over national laws in cases of conflict (Slovakia);
133.23 Ensure the incorporation of the principles and norms of the
international human rights law, especially of those treaties to which the
Philippines is party, into its national legislation (Peru);
133.24 Ensure that domestic legislation conforms with the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and other human
rights instruments, fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of
the International Criminal Court and ratify the Optional Protocol to the
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Estonia);
133.25 Ensure conformity of national legislation with the international legal
instruments on human rights, in particular the Convention on the Elimination
of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Gabon);
133.26 Promote legislation conforming fully to the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Japan);
133.27 Enact laws to establish a national preventive mechanism in
accordance with the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture
(Republic of Korea);
133.28 Expedite the establishment of an effective national preventive
mechanism, as required under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against
Torture (Slovenia);
133.29 Establish and ensure the proper functioning of a national preventive
mechanism (Republic of Moldova);
133.30 Ensure that laws, policies and programmes aimed at protecting the
human rights of women, elderly persons, persons with disabilities and
indigenous peoples are effectively implemented (Cuba);
133.31 Ensure that laws, policies and programmes to protect the rights of
women, the elderly, persons with disabilities and indigenous people are
effectively implemented (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);
133.32 Strengthen the implementation of the measures set out in the five-
year plan of action for elderly people (Morocco);
133.33 Promulgate as soon as possible a law to establish an effective national
preventive mechanism against torture (Guatemala);
133.34 Continue its work to improve its potential in the human rights field,
particularly by strengthening national human rights institutions and
completing the process for the elaboration of the Philippine human rights
action plan (Russian Federation);
133.35 Complete and implement effectively the national human rights action
plan (China);
133.36 Continue the formulation and implementation of the national human
rights action plan (Nepal);
133.37 Accelerate the drafting of the national human rights action plan for
the next five years and start implementing it (Libya);
133.38 Develop its third human rights action plan to guide its policy
direction and ensure the implementation of programmes for an even more
robust promotion and protection of human rights (Thailand);

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133.39 Expedite the process to put in place a human rights action plan
(Uganda);
133.40 Publicize and implement the national human rights action plan
(Kenya);
133.41 Strengthen cooperation with national and international human rights
institutions in order to implement the national human rights action plan
(Mexico);
133.42 Ensure human rights training for State security forces in order to
enhance their capacity to protect human rights (Ghana);
133.43 Provide adequate resourcing to the Commission on Human Rights
and allow it to investigate alleged extrajudicial killings (Australia);
133.44 Ensure that the fight against crime strictly respects international
standards (Peru);
133.45 Strengthen the campaign against illegal drugs (Bolivarian Republic
of Venezuela);
133.46 Continue its efforts to protect its people from the threat of drugs
while upholding human rights values (Myanmar);
133.47 Take the necessary measures to combat drug trafficking while
ensuring that the methods used are in conformity with international standards
(Haiti);
133.48 Ensure that all counter-narcotics operations are conducted in
conformity with constitutional protections and international human rights
obligations (United States of America);
133.49 Bring into line with international best practices the methods of
combating the use of illegal drugs in the Philippines, namely in terms of
prevention and alternative sanctions (Portugal);
133.50 Continue the holistic approach of the Inter-Agency Committee on
Anti-Illegal Drugs focusing on law enforcement operations, as well as on the
rehabilitation and reintegration of drug users (Romania);
133.51 Address the root cause of illegal drugs through development (China);
133.52 Adopt comprehensive and human-centred approaches to its anti-
illegal drug policy, particularly the provision of appropriate health measures
(Thailand);
133.53 Continue efforts to combat drugs and crime within a framework of
the protection of and respect for human rights (Lebanon);
133.54 Ensure human rights standards are observed in the current
government’s conduct of its campaigns against illegal drugs (Zambia);
133.55 Bring its methods of combating the use of illegal drugs into line with
international standards (Timor-Leste);
133.56 Continue to realign its national procedures to combat drug
trafficking with international standards (Egypt);
133.57 Enact effective legislation aligned with international standards to
combat the use of illegal drugs (Maldives);
133.58 Employ methods that adjust to international norms, including human
rights norms, to combat the consumption of illegal drugs (Guatemala);
133.59 Guarantee that all the Government’s methods of combating the use
of illegal drugs are brought into line with international standards (Estonia);
133.60 Strengthen international cooperation to combat illegal drugs and
human trafficking (China);

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133.61 Speed up the process for adopting the non-discrimination law

(Georgia);
133.62 Adopt a comprehensive law against discrimination that is coherent
with its social inclusion programmes (Honduras);
133.63 Consolidate its recent progress through implementation of
comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation covering sex and sexual
orientation, gender identity and intersex status (Australia);
133.64 Eliminate discriminatory stereotypes based on gender (Honduras);
133.65 Strengthen efforts in the field of equitable justice through the
Philippine development plan (Morocco);
133.66 Continue efforts to ensure protection of human rights for inclusive
development and to reduce the level of poverty, particularly in rural areas and
among the vulnerable strata of the population (Uzbekistan);
133.67 Continue implementation of its 10-point socioeconomic agenda and
create skills-enhancement programmes on the basis of the human resources
road map for 2016-2022 (Pakistan);
133.68 Deepen its engagement and collaboration with communities in the
implementation of development projects and social policies which will ensure
better buy-in and social outcomes for the affected communities (Singapore);
133.69 Pursue steps made with the aim of addressing the effects of climate
change on the population (Algeria);
133.70 Examine the 2011-2028 national plan for climate change with a view
to addressing the challenges in its implementation in consultation with all
stakeholders (Haiti);
133.71 Re-examine the Mining Act of 1995 with a view to reinforcing its
environmental provisions and sustainable development practices, which will
help the mining industry to become one of the main contributors to the
country’s wealth (Haiti);
133.72 Continue its efforts to implement the Paris Agreement on climate
change, including through multilateral cooperation (Myanmar);
133.73 Redouble efforts to put in place an environmental regulatory policy
to ensure the implementation of this development of plan (Qatar);
133.74 Stop the implementation of counter-insurgency programmes that
target human rights defenders and civilians (Slovakia);
133.75 Continue efforts to combat terrorism, the drug trade and drug use,
within the framework of the Constitution, the law and international human
rights standards (Iraq);
133.76 Respect the right to life and maintain the abolition of the death
penalty (Haiti);
133.77 Consider not reinstating the death penalty, as per the bill introduced
before the Seventeenth Congress (Mozambique);
133.78 Abstain from reintroducing of the death penalty (Luxembourg);
133.79 Reconsider any attempt to reimpose capital punishment, with the aim
of not reintroducing the death penalty (Slovakia);
133.80 Preserve the right to life and do not bring back the use of the death
penalty as proposed in the death penalty bill (Liechtenstein);
133.81 Respect its obligations under international law and refrain from
reintroducing capital punishment (Republic of Moldova);

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133.82 Refrain from reintroducing the death penalty, in accordance with its
international obligations, in particular those under the Second Optional
Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aimed at
the abolition of the death penalty (Switzerland);
133.83 Continue to uphold the implementation commitments as a State party
to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Romania);
133.84 Respect its obligations under the Second Optional Protocol to the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and refrain from the plans
to reimpose the death penalty (Norway);
133.85 Uphold its international obligations and not reinstate the capital
punishment (Portugal);
133.86 Cease all steps to reintroduce the death penalty, which would be
contrary to its obligations under the Optional Protocol to the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; urgently accept a visit from the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, without
preconditions or limitations; fully investigate and prosecute all cases of
extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances; take immediate steps to
combat torture in the criminal justice system, including torture in police
stations to extract confessions; and fully respect international human rights law
in its efforts to combat the trade in and use of illegal drugs (Ireland);
133.87 Respect its obligations under international law as a State party to the
Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Belgium);
133.88 Continue the implementation of the provisions of the Second
Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,
aiming at the abolition of the death penalty, and abandon plans to restore the
death penalty as a legal punishment (Lithuania);
133.89 Continue its support for the Second Optional Protocol to the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (New Zealand);
133.90 Maintain the abolition of death penalty in line with its obligations
under the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights (Czechia);
133.91 Fulfil the obligations assumed as a State party to the Second Optional
Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aimed at
the abolition of the death penalty, and oppose any attempt to reinstate capital
punishment (Uruguay);
133.92 Maintain its binding commitment to the Second Optional Protocol to
the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition
of the death penalty, thereby repealing legal propositions aiming at restoring
the death penalty (Brazil);
133.93 Abide by its obligations under the Second Optional Protocol to the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Ukraine);
133.94 Abandon the plan to reintroduce the death penalty, which would be
against the international commitments of the country (France);
133.95 Refrain from introducing the death penalty in the national legal
system, also in respect of international obligations (Italy);
133.96 Do not reintroduce the death penalty, consistent with the Philippines’
obligations as a State party to the Second Optional Protocol to the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Australia);
133.97 Refrain from reintroducing the death penalty (Canada);

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133.98 Refrain from reintroducing the death penalty and from lowering the
minimum age of criminal responsibility (Bulgaria);
133.99 Maintain the protection of the right to life from conception to natural
death (Holy See);
133.100 Take steps to put an end to extrajudicial executions, enforced
disappearances, illegal arrests and acts of torture perpetrated by the police
corps, and private security or paramilitary groups, and to investigate actions of
the police dismantling all groups created in the margin of law (Costa Rica);
133.101 Guarantee the protection of all people against enforced
disappearances and guarantee the rights of persons with disabilities (Sudan);
133.102 Without delay, take measures to put an end to extrajudicial,
summary or arbitrary executions and prosecute the perpetrators of these acts
(France);
133.103 Establish necessary mechanisms to eradicate extrajudicial, summary
and arbitrary executions by bringing perpetrators to justice and intensifying
efforts to eradicate the use of torture and inhuman and degrading treatment
(Spain);
133.104 Strengthen efforts to stop extrajudicial killings and enforced
disappearances in the country (Poland);
133.105 Put an end to extrajudicial killings, including those related to the war
on drugs, enforced disappearances, illegal arrests and detention, torture,
harassment and other human rights violations (Slovakia);
133.106 Take immediate steps to stop extrajudicial killings and to conduct an
independent and impartial inquiry into all enforced disappearances and
extrajudicial killings so that the perpetrators of these crimes are brought to
justice (Netherlands);
133.107 Take concrete measures to stop extrajudicial killings and invite the
Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions to visit
the country without conditions (Lithuania);
133.108 End extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, illegal arrests
and detention, torture and harassment, including by effectively implementing
criminal prohibitions against extrajudicial killings (Canada);
133.109 Take all necessary measures to prevent extrajudicial killings and
enforced disappearances and carry out impartial investigations to hold
perpetrators accountable (Germany);
133.110 Immediately end extrajudicial executions and carry out an
independent and impartial investigation into all enforced disappearances and
extrajudicial executions in order to bring the authors of these crimes to justice
(Chile);
133.111 Immediately end the campaign of extrajudicial killings, which may
amount to crimes against humanity under international law (Ghana);
133.112 Protect and guarantee the right to life and to a fair trial also in the
context of the campaign against drug trafficking, and take all necessary steps to
guarantee a proportionate use of force by the security forces (Italy);
133.113 Take all necessary steps to ensure prompt, impartial and transparent
investigations into alleged unlawful killings and other abuses during anti-drug
operations (Hungary);
133.114 Condemn and put an end to unresolved homicides and enforced
disappearances (Uruguay);
133.115 Immediately stop all unlawful killings and incitement to carry out
killings in the name of the anti-drug campaign (Iceland);

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133.116 Put an end to extrajudicial executions and torture, in particular in

the context of the fight against drugs (Luxembourg);
133.117 Make efforts to eliminate extrajudicial killings and enforced
disappearances, and intensify efforts to carry out prosecutions for such crimes
(Norway);
133.118 Publicly denounce extrajudicial killings and other abuses in the anti-
drug campaign (Iceland);
133.119 Take due measures to prevent extrajudicial killings in the country
and grant access to the Special Rapporteurs on extrajudicial, summary or
arbitrary executions and on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the
highest attainable standard of physical and mental health for impartial and
credible investigations (Bulgaria);
133.120 Implement effectively the law against torture, in particular in
sentences for cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment inflicted to drug
traffickers (Angola);
133.121 Further strengthen measures to fully eliminate torture and all forms
of ill-treatment at every level, including by establishing a national preventive
mechanism (Georgia);
133.122 Eliminate the obstacles that hinder the effective implementation of
the Anti-Torture Act and fully comply with articles 18 and 19 of the Act, which
foresee compensation and rehabilitation of victims (Chile);
133.123 Take all necessary measures to prevent torture and other cruel,
inhuman or degrading treatment in detention facilities, including through the
provision of legal safeguards for detainees and ensure effective investigations
into allegations of torture, as well as the prosecution and sentencing of
perpetrators (Austria);
133.124 Reject any incitement to violence in the context of the State-
sponsored campaign against illegal drugs and hold perpetrators of such
incitement accountable (Czechia);
133.125 Continue with strategies and programmes to put an end to violence
against vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, ensuring child
protection both online and offline (Bosnia and Herzegovina);
133.126 Take action to eradicate violence and discrimination against women
and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, primarily in
educational institutions (Mexico);
133.127 Take steps to meet the minimum standards for the treatment of
prisoners (New Zealand);
133.128 Improve detention facilities, in particular to address overcrowding
and sanitation problems (Republic of Korea);
133.129 Take action to reduce overcrowding in detention facilities and
provide separate detention facilities for child offenders (Uganda);
133.130 Strengthen the legal context, the institutions and the resources of the
judicial system to guarantee an independent judiciary (France);
133.131 Strengthen the independence of the judiciary and the capacity of the
judicial system (Timor-Leste);
133.132 Strengthen criminal justice reform efforts in order to ensure a speedy
and fair trial for all accused (United States of America);
133.133 Adopt measures to strengthen the administration of justice and the
national human rights commission, to enforce the action of the State against
organized crime (Costa Rica);

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133.134 Continue its efforts on improving access to justice (Azerbaijan);

133.135 Strengthen the witness protection programme (Timor-Leste);
133.136 Ensure that all pretrial detainees are brought before a judge without
delay and expedite the cases of persons held under the Comprehensive
Dangerous Drugs Act (Liechtenstein);
133.137 Take further steps to eradicate impunity for killings (Croatia);
133.138 Undertake criminal justice reforms in line with international
standards to ensure prompt investigations and trials for alleged perpetrators of
human trafficking and to address extrajudicial killings and sexual violence
against women and children (Botswana);
133.139 Deepen the measures taken to ensure the fight against impunity and
guarantee to all victims of human rights violations compensation and the
establishment of all adequate mechanisms for rehabilitation (Argentina);
133.140 Strengthen investigative and prosecutorial bodies to ensure thorough
investigations into all killings, as well as the appropriate prosecution of
perpetrators (United States of America);
133.141 Put an end to impunity by ensuring impartial investigations and
bringing to justice those responsible of extrajudicial executions and torture
(Luxembourg);
133.142 End impunity and hold the perpetrators of enforced disappearance,
extrajudicial killings and torture to account and facilitate access to justice for
the victims of such violations (Slovenia);
133.143 Ensure thorough and independent investigations into violent deaths
and commit to bringing to justice those involved in abuses, including security
forces (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
133.144 Investigate thoroughly all extrajudicial killings (Portugal);
133.145 Ensure that extrajudicial killings are properly investigated and that
the persons responsible are held to account in accordance with due process and
the rule of law (Sweden);
133.146 Undertake a prompt and independent investigation into the
extrajudicial killings related to the fight against illegal drugs and ensure
accountability for perpetrators, as well as justice, remedy and reparations for
victims and their families (Czechia);
133.147 Appropriately investigate deaths which have occurred in the course
of police operations associated with the war on drugs (New Zealand);
133.148 Effectively fight impunity by investigating all cases of extrajudicial
killings and enforced disappearances committed by the police, the armed forces
or non-State actors and bring all perpetrators to justice (Austria);
133.149 Conduct impartial, immediate and effective investigations into all
presumed cases of extrajudicial or summary execution, including appropriate
documentation of each alleged offence, preservation of evidence and
compliance with procedural safeguards (Switzerland);
133.150 Thoroughly investigate killings by private armies and vigilantes
responsible for unsanctioned activities during the Government’s anti-drug
campaign and prosecute those responsible (Sierra Leone);
133.151 Investigate thoroughly all deaths, both those involving State security
forces allegedly killing suspects in self-defence and those perpetrated by
unknown assassins (Zambia);
133.152 Thoroughly investigate alleged extrajudicial killings and ensure
accountability (Australia);

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133.153 Ensure a credible, independent investigation with international

involvement into unlawful killings (Iceland);
133.154 Conduct an independent and impartial inquiry into all enforced
disappearances and extrajudicial killings so that the perpetrators of these
crimes are brought to justice (Ghana);
133.155 Prosecute persons implicated in such unlawful killings, including
government officials and their affiliates (Iceland);
133.156 Investigate and fairly prosecute those implicated in torture or other
forms of mistreatment (Hungary);
133.157 Adopt measures to prevent, eliminate and end impunity for all forms
of sexual violence, including by improving the investigation and prosecution of
sexual offenders and ensuring that penalties are applied consistently (Canada);
133.158 Combat crimes committed against human rights defenders through
prompt, impartial and transparent investigations (Denmark);
133.159 Investigate and prosecute those responsible for using children in
pornography (Uruguay);
133.160 Guarantee the rights of children in the context of criminal
accountability and create the best alternative for improving the current system
of youth accountability, in compliance with the Convention on the Rights of the
Child (Estonia);
133.161 Reform the judicial system to provide rehabilitation to youth
offenders and implement the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (Kenya);
133.162 Implement effectively the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act as a
mandate and do not pass legislation lowering the minimum age of criminal
responsibility to avoid further criminalization of minor children and their ill-
treatment and abuse in detention facilities (Austria);
133.163 Strengthen the protection of children’s rights, including by
maintaining a minimum age of 15 years for criminal liability and raising the
age of sexual consent to 16 years (Canada);
133.164 Maintain the age of criminal responsibility for children as it
currently stands (Belgium);
133.165 Maintain the minimum age of criminal responsibility and do not
lower it (Sweden);
133.166 Reject any plans for lowering the minimum age of criminal
responsibility (Czechia);
133.167 Abandon the plan to reduce the age of penal responsibility, as it will
lead to prosecuting children like adults prior to giving them the means to
become responsible citizens (France);
133.168 Refrain from lowering the age of criminal responsibility in line with
commitments under the Convention of the Rights of the Child (Germany);
133.169 Do not lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility for children
(Kenya);
133.170 Take all necessary measures to promote the enjoyment of freedom of
expression, religion and civil liberties (Botswana);
133.171 Redouble efforts to protect freedom of opinion and belief and to
promote media freedom and the rights of journalists (Lebanon);
133.172 Create a safer working environment for journalists (Lithuania);

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133.173 Take all necessary measures to provide adequate protection to

journalists and human rights defenders, in particular regarding enforced
disappearances and extrajudicial killings (Estonia);
133.174 Take all necessary measures to protect the life of human rights
defenders, journalists and other threatened persons (Germany);
133.175 Investigate all cases of threats, intimidation and attacks against
media personnel and ensure that those responsible are held accountable
(Latvia);
133.176 Guarantee the establishment of a safe and enabling environment for
the work of human rights defenders, specifically through the adoption of a law
for the protection and recognition of human rights defenders (Hungary);
133.177 Take steps to create and maintain in law and in practice a safe and
enabling environment for civil society and human rights defenders, including
by acknowledging publicly their important and legitimate role in the promotion
of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, by simplifying the process for
forming associations and by applying the good practices set out in Human
Rights Council resolution 32/31, and to request and accept technical assistance,
including from OHCHR, to fulfil these commitments (Ireland);
133.178 Establish an effective protection system for human rights defenders
and journalists and ensure the free exercise of their rights to freedom of
opinion, expression and association (Luxembourg);
133.179 Take necessary measures to provide adequate protection to
journalists and human rights defenders (Norway);
133.180 Protect more effectively human rights defenders and journalists,
especially through cooperation with civil society (Poland);
133.181 Ensure the protection of the rights of defenders, journalists and
members of the political opposition (Ukraine);
133.182 Promote a safe, enabling environment for the work of human rights
defenders through the adoption of a charter for the protection and recognition
of human rights defenders (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern
Ireland);
133.183 Integrate indigenous and Muslim women in all realms of political and
public life (Angola);
133.184 Continue its endeavours to combat all forms of human trafficking
(Azerbaijan);
133.185 Continue efforts to eliminate trade in men, women and children in
order to exploit them in forced labour (Iraq);
133.186 Continue efforts to combat human trafficking and rehabilitate its
victims (Lebanon);
133.187 Continue to strengthen efforts to combat trafficking in people,
including under the strategic national plan of action to prevent online sexual
exploitation of children and the programme for rehabilitating and
reintegrating victims of human trafficking (Belarus);
133.188 Continue to step up efforts in the area of combating trafficking in
human beings, especially women and children (Bosnia and Herzegovina);
133.189 Continue working with bilateral, regional and international partners
to address trafficking in persons (Cuba);
133.190 Continue its national efforts to end human trafficking and sexual
exploitation (Egypt);

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133.191 Continue to work with bilateral, regional and international partners

to address trafficking in persons (Indonesia);
133.192 Strengthen preventive cross-border anti-trafficking strategies and
their implementation (Sierra Leone);
133.193 Increase efforts aimed at combating trafficking in persons and all
forms of exploitation of children by, inter alia, taking the necessary measures to
prevent impunity for perpetrators (Holy See);
133.194 Take more effective measures to combat human trafficking, which
affects in particular women and children (Poland);
133.195 Continue its efforts to tackle human trafficking, especially of
children, through the effective implementation of the recovery and
reintegration programme for trafficked persons (Maldives);
133.196 Strengthen the fight against human trafficking in all forms, including
by strengthening inter-agency coordination to combat cybersex in the
community and by securing cooperation from the private sector to prevent and
respond to child online abuse (Netherlands);
133.197 Continue its efforts to combat trafficking in persons, including by
strengthening the legal framework and ensuring the safety and welfare of
victims of trafficking (Sri Lanka);
133.198 Develop a legal framework to explicitly address contemporary
methods of trafficking (Uganda);
133.199 Ratify the Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention of the
International Labour Organization and build criminal justice capabilities to
increase the investigation, prosecution and conviction of perpetrators of
modern slavery (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
133.200 Carry out further efforts to combat human trafficking (Uzbekistan);
133.201 Sustain and promote the family, based on marriage between a man
and a woman, as the natural and fundamental unit of society (Holy See);
133.202 Strengthen the domestic legal framework on job protection
(Indonesia);
133.203 Continue its efforts to address the problem of unemployment and
improve competitiveness in human resources through the effective
implementation of the current strategy for 2016-2020 (Libya);
133.204 Provide sufficient resources for poverty alleviation programmes
(Saudi Arabia);
133.205 Ensure that the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022, the
Conditional Cash Transfer Programme and the Sustainable Livelihood
Programme continue to be adequately financed and are more targeted in their
delivery, so that assistance can reach those most in need across the country
(Singapore);
133.206 Ensure adequate resources for poverty alleviation programmes, in
line with the commitments to pursue an inclusive growth (Viet Nam);
133.207 Ensure adequate resources for poverty alleviation programmes, in
line with the commitments to pursue inclusive economic development
(Cambodia);
133.208 Ensure adequate resources for poverty alleviation programmes, in
line with the commitment to ensure inclusive growth (Lao People’s Democratic
Republic);
133.209 Continue to pursue efforts to eradicate poverty and discrimination
against women (Yemen);

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133.210 Continue to combat poverty and malnutrition, especially among

children (Lebanon);
133.211 Remain focused on combating poverty, particularly in areas where
poverty is most prevalent and widespread (Malaysia);
133.212 Continue its fight against poverty with a focus on upholding respect
and observance for human rights (Ecuador);
133.213 Ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the Responsible
Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act, in line with international obligations
regarding sexual and reproductive health and rights, by increasing access to
modern contraceptives (Brazil);
133.214 Ensure that Executive Order No. 12 pertaining to the Responsible
Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act is fully implemented in order to meet
the needs for modern family planning and to secure universal access to sexual
and reproductive health and rights (Sweden);
133.215 Continue to undertake efforts to implement the Responsible
Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act (New Zealand);
133.216 Ensure full and equal access to modern contraceptives, including in
rural and indigenous communities (Denmark);
133.217 Guarantee medical care for persons suffering from drug addiction
(France);
133.218 Further strengthen the community-based rehabilitation programme
for drug addicts, inpatients and outpatients for their integration into society
(Pakistan);
133.219 Continue to allocate the highest budgetary priority to public
education (Viet Nam);
133.220 Continue to allocate budgetary priority to public education
(Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
133.221 Continue to prioritize the budget for public education (Saudi
Arabia);
133.222 Continue to intensify efforts to further increase the enrolment of
children in schools (Brunei Darussalam);
133.223 Continue to enhance laws and policies of access to education for the
most disadvantaged learners, as done through the Alternative Learning System
(Holy See);
133.224 Given the positive strides made in public education, continue to
ensure access to quality education to vulnerable and marginalized groups
(Malaysia);
133.225 Continue its efforts to improve education in the country, to enhance
the number of girls enrolled in pre-primary and primary education and to
ensure a compulsory and free education (State of Palestine);
133.226 Take urgent measures to modify legislation stipulating the
precedence of the husband’s decisions over the wife’s decisions with respect to
common property, the exercise of parental authority and the custody of
children (Argentina);
133.227 Continue its work to strengthen its policies to further promote gender
equality and eliminate discrimination and violence against women (Brunei
Darussalam);
133.228 Carry on the efforts to combat all forms of discrimination and
violence against women (Tunisia);

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133.229 Work towards the economic empowerment of women and their

enhanced presence in decision-making positions (Tunisia);
133.230 Approve the legal provisions that would make it possible to derogate
the articles of the Family Code stipulating the predominance of the husband’s
decision over that of the wife with regard to common property and the exercise
of paternal rights and the custody of children (Chile);
133.231 Continue working on measures to enable women to have effective
access to the justice system (Honduras);
133.232 Take immediate steps to permit abortion in cases where a woman’s
or a girl’s life or physical or mental health is in danger, where the pregnancy is
a result of rape or incest and in cases of fetal impairment, with a view to
decriminalizing abortion in the near future (Netherlands);
133.233 Take further steps to eliminate abuses of the rights of the child
(Republic of Korea);
133.234 Continue to strengthen the national framework for the protection of
children’s rights (Morocco);
133.235 Intensify efforts to eradicate all forms of violence against children
(Spain);
133.236 Carry on efforts to protect children, especially children of indigenous
populations (Tunisia);
133.237 Strengthen measures aimed at protecting children against violence
and all kinds of sexual exploitation (Algeria);
133.238 Amend the age of sexual consent from 12 to 16 years (Sweden);
133.239 Take prompt actions to protect children against sex abuse and
exploitation (Poland);
133.240 Make further efforts to protect children against all risks of sexual or
economic exploitation (Qatar);
133.241 Ensure that victims of grave violations receive timely, effective and
appropriate services through the monitoring, reporting and response system
for children affected by conflict (Belgium);
133.242 Take measures in order to fully guarantee the rights of children, in
particular with reference to the treatment of juveniles in the judicial system,
and to prevent and combat the involvement of children in armed conflicts, their
trafficking and their exploitation in the prostitution and pornography industry
(Italy);
133.243 Ensure that all legislative amendments affecting children’s rights
take into account the superior interest of the child in accordance with
international standards (Mexico);
133.244 Take the necessary legislative and other measures to prevent children
from being engaged in child labour (Montenegro);
133.245 Increase efforts to combat child labour, which is very often combined
with hazardous or dangerous conditions of work (Poland);
133.246 Improve the practical application and the incorporation of an
inclusive approach to the rights of persons with disabilities in the adoption of
the legislative measures to guarantee, in particular, equal access to public
services (Spain);
133.247 Strengthen labour and economic policies in favour of persons with
disabilities (Ecuador);

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133.248 Continue its efforts to promote the rights of people with disabilities
and ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access to all public facilities
and services (State of Palestine);
133.249 Continue efforts in social and health insurance to the benefit of
children with disabilities (Tunisia);
133.250 Take necessary measures to preserve the ancestral lands of
indigenous peoples (Peru);
133.251 Continue the promotion and protection of the rights of migrant
workers at all levels, in particular through the agenda on migrants’ health (Sri
Lanka);
133.252 Continue to engage bilateral, regional and multilateral partners to
better protect the rights and welfare of migrants and members of their families
(Viet Nam);
133.253 Enhance its engagement with its partners to better protect the rights
and welfare of migrant workers and members of their families (Indonesia);
133.254 Continue to make concerted efforts to protect the rights of overseas
migrant workers (Nepal);
133.255 Develop a permanent resettlement approach for internally displaced
persons (Kenya);
133.256 Accede to and fully implement the 1961 Convention on the Reduction
of Statelessness and ensure that all otherwise stateless persons in the country
have access to a procedure that will facilitate the acquisition of a nationality
(Slovakia);
133.257 Continue to do all that is necessary to end statelessness, especially for
those living in areas that have experienced armed conflict before peace (Egypt).
134. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect
the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not
be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.

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Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of the Philippines was headed by His Excellency Mr. Menardo I.
Guevarra, Senior Deputy Executive Secretary at the Office of the President and His
Excellency Alan Peter S. Cayetano, Chair of Foreign Relations Committee, Senate of the
Philippines, and composed of the following members:
• H.E. Evan P. Garcia, Co-Alternate Head of Delegation, Permanent Representative of
the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN and Other International
Organizations in Geneva;
• H.E. Pilar Juliana S. Cayetano, Co-Alternate Head of Delegation, Deputy Speaker
Delegation, House of Representatives of the Philippines;
• Hon. Severo S. Catura, Co-Alternate Head of Delegation, Undersecretary Delegation
Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat, Office of the President;
• Mr. Reynante B Orceo, Member, Undersecretary, Department of Justice;
• Mr. Isidro S. Lapena, Member, Director General, Philippine Drug Enforcement
Agency;
• Mr. Bayani S. Mercado, Member, Assistant Secretary, Department of Foreign
Affairs;
• Mr. Epimaco V. Densing, Member, Assistant Secretary, Department of Interior and
Local Government;
• Mr. Carlos Bernardo O. Abad Santos, Member, Assistant Secretary National
Economic Development Authority;
• Ms. Charito A. Zamora, Member, Assistant Secretary, Office of the Executive
Secretary, Office of the President;
• Ms. Maria Teresa T. Almojuela, Member, Deputy Permanent Representative
Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN and other International
Organizations in Geneva;
• Mr. Enrico T. Fos, Member, Minister and Consul General, Permanent Mission of the
Philippines to the UN and Other International Organizations in Geneva;
• Mr. Arnel G. Talisayon, Member, First Secretary and Consul, Permanent Mission of
the Philippines to the UN and Other International Organizations in Geneva;
• Ms. Maria Elena Cristina D. Maningat, Member First Secretary and Consul,
Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN and other International
Organizations in Geneva;
• Ms. Vanessa G. Bago-Llona, Member, Acting Director Office of the United Nations
and International Organizations, Department of Foreign Affairs;
• Ms. Sharon Johnette M. Agduma, Member Third Secretary and Vice Consul,
Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the UN and Other International
Organizations in Geneva;
• Mr. Leocadio T. Trovela, Member, Director Department of Interior and Local
Government;
• Ms. Gladys F. Rosales, Member, Director Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency;
• Ms. Myrna Clara B. Asuncion, Member, Director National Economic Development
Authority;
• Mr. Masli A. Quilaman, Member, Director National Commission on Indigenous
Peoples;

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• Ms. Gisella R. Mendoza, Member, State Counsel Department of Justice;

• Mr. Dennis A. Siervo, Member, Chief Superintendent, Philippine National Police
Human Rights Affairs Office;
• Mr. Marivil V. Valles, Member, Principal Assistant, Office of the United Nations
and Other International Organizations, Department of Foreign Affairs;
• Mr. Eduardo D. Esquivias, Member, Major, Judge Advocate General Office, Armed
Forces of the Philippines Human Rights Office;
• Mr. Maria Corazon Lucia V. Teoxon, Member, Head Executive Assistant, Office of
the Secretary Department of Health;
• Mr. Delmer R. Cruz, Member, Labor Attaché, Permanent Mission of the Philippines
to the UN and Other International Organizations in Geneva;
• Mr. Tito Marshall R. Fajardo, Member, Technical Assistant Presidential Human
Rights Committee Secretariat;
• Ms. Alnie Foja, Member, Legal Consultant, Office of the Secretary Department of
Social Welfare Development;
• Ms. MA. Chona S. Idul-Desimpele, Member, Attaché, Permanent Mission of the
Philippines to the UN and Other International Organizations in Geneva;
• Ms. Sarah Lou Ysmael Arriola, Member, Chief of Staff, Office of Sen. Alan Peter
Cayetano;
• Mr. Errol Angelito Bernardes Leones, Member, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of
Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano;
• Ms. Denya Gracia J. Uy-Anastacio, Member, Chief of Staff, Office of Rep. Pilar
Juliana Cayetano;
• Mr. Dexter Estacio, Member, Technical Officer, Office of Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano.

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