The Department of Foreign Affairs spearheaded this year’s celebration on 12 August 2003, International Humanitarian Law Day by hosting a media event in the Department. Undersecretary Franklin Ebdalin read the speech of Secretary Blas F. Ople who emphasized “our commitment to and advocacy of International Humanitarian Law as important steps towards a return to normalcy and peace.”

“The very core of international humanitarian law is our fundamental advocacy, and this is that in any conflict, the armed forces should not direct any attack against civilian population, civilians not taking direct part in the hostilities, and civilian objects. As such, there should be respect for the lives and liberties of civilian populations, particularly women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Protection must also be accorded civilian objects like cultural property, places of worship and diplomatic premises,” the statement said.

Among the speakers at the media briefing were: DND Undersecretary Edgardo Batenga, Justice Leonor Ines Luciano, Chairperson of the National IHL Committee, Philippine National Red Cross and a very committed champion of humanitaian law; and Congresman Jose Apolinario  Lozada Jr.,  the author of a draft bill for a Philippine statute on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law and other international crimes;  and UNIO Assistant Secretary Ma. Lourdes Ramiro-Lopez who gave the opening remarks.

Also present in the IHL Day celebration were Mr. Dominique Dufour, the outgoing ICRC Head of Delegation in the Philippines and Simeon Antoulas, the incoming ICRC Head of Delegation. A plaque of appreciation was presented to Mr. Dufour after the press conference. END