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.
News
“Red tagging threatens life, liberty and security of Filipinos”- Supreme Court
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In Defense of Human Rights and Dignity Movement (iDEFEND ) welcomes the Supreme Court ruling on red-tagging in the face of continuing threats to the life and safety of human rights and environmental defenders in the country. The Court affirmed the pernicious impact of such practice which was institutionalized by the previous Duterte government and allowed by the present Marcos Jr. government. The ruling proved that red tagging poses a threat to people’s life, liberty, and security.
To Protect Filipino Seafarers, the Philippine Government must call for stronger measures towards a Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza Now!
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To this day since November 19, 2023, when the cargo vessel Galaxy Leader was seized by the Houthis, 17 Filipino member of the ship's crew are still being held in Yemen.
In their most recent attack, the Houthis launched a ballistic missile that struck another ship named True Confidence and killed three seafarers, two of whom are Filipinos, and injured four others.
Pahayag ng iDEFEND sa Pandaigdigang Buwan ng Kababaihan
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Ginugunita ngayong taon ang Pandaigdigang Araw ng mga Kababaihan kasabay ng mas tumitinding mga usapin at atake sa mga kababaihan at kanilang mga kinabibilangang komunidad at sektor.
Working justice system? - iDEFEND
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A Navotas Regional Trial Court found Police SSgt. Gerry Maliban and four other policemen guilty of homicide and illegal discharge of weapons, resulting in the death of 17-year old Jemboy Baltazar. Another cop was acquitted. Maliban is sentenced to jail for up to six years while four of the convicted have been released for “time served”.