THE Philippines’ commitment to upholding international humanitarian law and denouncing war and violence affecting civilians across the globe—particularly in Gaza, Israel, and Ukraine—was reaffirmed by Senate Committee on Foreign Relations Vice Chairman Erwin Tulfo during the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) plenary session on October 22.
Speaking before lawmakers from around the world as head of the Philippine delegation to the IPU, Tulfo highlighted United Nations data showing that hundreds of millions of people suffer from the consequences of ongoing conflicts and the adverse effects of climate change.
“Violent conflicts continue to persist despite all efforts toward peace. Some have just erupted, others are on the brink, while several have endured for decades. The consequences are devastating—lives lost, communities displaced, and vital infrastructure destroyed,” Tulfo lamented.
He added: “These are stark reminders that conflict and climate both threaten our shared humanity. We cannot, and must not, accept this as the norm. Wars and violent conflicts have no place in a civilized world. For our part, the Philippines renounces war as an instrument of national policy and upholds peace, justice, cooperation and amity among all nations, as enshrined in our Constitution.”
The Sebator also reiterated the Philippines’ support for the full, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza, the announcement of the Israel-Hamas peace plan, and the cessation of hostilities in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
While expressing support for peace negotiations, Tulfo also underscored the importance of ensuring accountability for those who violate international humanitarian law, stating that “inaction in the face of human suffering would be the greatest injustice of all.”
As the Philippines vies for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027-2028, Tulfo assured IPU members that, if elected, the country will work closely with all nations to uphold the rule of law, advance the peaceful resolution of conflicts, and ensure the protection of civilians in all circumstances.
He declared: “The Philippines envisions a world where respect for international humanitarian law is not only aspirational but operational; not only occasional but enduring.”
