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Submission to the Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights 77th Session, 2025 Philippines

In Defense of Human Rights and Dignity Movement (iDEFEND), a coalition of over 66 grassroots organizations and advocates from across the Philippines and abroad, welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (the Committee) as it reviews the Philippines’ Seventh Periodic Report under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).

This submission draws upon the inputs from grassroots organizations advocating for the realization of economic, social, and cultural rights, with a particular focus on marginalized populations. It critically analyzes the Philippine government’s performance in fulfilling its ICESCR obligations, including adherence to core principles such as ensuring Minimum Essential Levels of rights, preventing retrogressive measures, and addressing discrimination. The State’s obligation to prioritize those at greatest risk remains paramount, even in the context of resource constraints.

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2025 ESCR Report Philippines cover

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IGIIT ANG GOBYERNONG MAY PANANAGUTAN, LABANAN ANG KRISIS SA KABUHAYAN AT KARAPATAN
IGIIT ANG GOBYERNONG MAY PANANAGUTAN, LABANAN ANG KRISIS SA KABUHAYAN AT KARAPATAN

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UN ESCR committee 77 session 2025

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iDEFEND’s Statement on the 7th periodic review of the Philippines at the 77th Session of the UN Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights.

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Ang Ating Karapatan, Ang Ating Kinabukasan ay Ating Laban

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