EU-Philippines Fifth Subcommittee Meeting Focuses on Governance, Rule of Law, and Human Rights
The European Union and the Republic of the Philippines held their Fifth Subcommittee Meeting on Good Governance, Rule of Law, and Human Rights in Brussels on 6 October, under the long‑standing EU-Philippines Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). The gathering was co‑chaired by Deena Joy D. Amatong, Assistant Secretary for European Affairs of the Philippines, and Paola Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the European External Action Service (EEAS). EU Member States and Philippine government agencies participated, signaling broad cross‑sectoral interest in the discussions.
Shared Values and Mutual Commitments
Both sides reiterated their commitment to human rights, the rule of law, due process, and good governance. In a climate of rising geopolitical tensions, the EU and the Philippines underscored a mutual responsibility to uphold the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and to condemn violations of human rights and international humanitarian law wherever they occur. The dialogue emphasized that upholding these norms strengthens both partners’ credibility and resilience in a contested global environment.
Addressing Corruption and Enhancing Public Trust
A central theme was the joint effort to fight corruption. The EU welcomed the Philippines’ ongoing reforms aimed at boosting transparency, accountability, and governance. Delegations noted that reducing corruption is essential not only for improving public trust but also for attracting investment, ensuring efficient public services, and fostering inclusive development. Practical measures under consideration include strengthening public procurement rules, enhancing financial oversight, and expanding citizen‑centric governance initiatives.
Human Rights and Civil Society Engagement
The Philippine delegation presented its 4th National Action Plan on Human Rights and the activities of the Special Committee on Human Rights Coordination (SCHRC). Both sides highlighted the importance of inclusive participation by the Philippine Commission on Human Rights and civil society organizations in implementing the Action Plan and sustaining gains from the United Nations Joint Programme for Human Rights (UNJP). The EU encouraged ongoing invitations to UN Special Procedures Mandate Holders and supported efforts to establish a national framework, including the possible Charter on the National Commission for Human Rights.
Judicial Reforms and Access to Justice
Efforts to improve justice delivery, jail decongestion, and the establishment of an independent National Forensic Institute were highlighted by the Philippines. The EU expressed appreciation for interim measures such as mandatory autopsies in cases of suspicious deaths, underscoring the need for timely, transparent investigations and accountability for abuses. The dialogue also covered the Enabling Justice and Rule of Law in the Philippines program, which aims to strengthen justice institutions and ensure fair trial standards for all, including vulnerable groups.
Freedom of Expression, Media Safety, and Digital Rights
Both sides underscored the importance of protecting freedom of opinion and expression, media pluralism, and digital rights. The discussion included progress on reviewing libel and cyber‑libel laws, and joint concerns over the safety of journalists. They condemned killings of journalists and reiterated commitments to safe working conditions for media workers, with rapid intervention mechanisms and inter‑agency collaboration playing a key role in protecting rights on the ground.
Business, Human Rights, and Sustainability
The EU presented measures to promote business and human rights, calling for a National Action Plan in the Philippines with meaningful involvement of local communities and indigenous peoples in projects that affect them. The two parties also addressed the protection of human rights in sensitive sectors such as extractives and digital services, and discussed aligning drug policy with a human rights–based approach while reviewing its effectiveness and impact on vulnerable groups.
Looking Ahead
In addition to current initiatives, the participants agreed on continuing cooperation with international partners and civil society groups to advance good governance, rule of law, and human rights. They reaffirmed support for anti‑trafficking efforts, protection of human rights defenders, and a rights‑based approach to drug policy. The next Sub‑Committee Meeting is planned for Manila in 2026, signaling ongoing institutional engagement and a steady timeline for progress.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to practical, measurable outcomes and to maintaining an open, constructive partnership that can adapt to new challenges while upholding fundamental rights and the rule of law.
