Marcos reaffirms PH commitment to refugees

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday stressed that protection of every individual is a responsibility of the society and urged Filipinos to help build a nation where those seeking safety are empowered to pursue a better future.

In his message for the 3rd National Refugee Day Forum of the Department of Justice-Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Unit (DOJ-RSPPU), Marcos said the Philippines has long upheld a tradition of extending compassion and protection to those forced to flee conflict, violence, and persecution.

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“As a nation founded on the values of humanity and fairness, we recognize that safeguarding the worth of every individual is not merely an act of goodwill but a responsibility of a just and civilized society,” he said.

The RSPPU is a specialized division within the DOJ responsible for examining and determining the legal status of Persons of Concern (POC) or asylum-seekers, refugees, and stateless persons within the country.

“Through the leadership of the DOJ-RSPPU, our country has strengthened pathways that enable refugees and stateless persons to rebuild their lives. Your efforts affirm the Filipino spirit of solidarity and our commitment to helping vulnerable people regain stability and hope,” Marcos said.

He said the forum provides a vital platform for government institutions, development partners, and civil society organizations to boost their partnership in the provision of education, livelihood opportunities,  and other kinds of support for the POC.

“May your exchanges foster stronger partnerships, inspire innovative solutions, and advance responsive policies that let uprooted individuals to live with greater dignity and security,” the President said. /jpv

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