Overview of the Fifth Subcommittee Meeting
The European Union (EU) and the Philippines held the Fifth Subcommittee Meeting on Good Governance, Rule of Law, and Human Rights on 6 October in Brussels. This gathering, part of the EU-Philippines Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) framework, brought together senior officials from the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and the European External Action Service (EEAS). The meeting was co-chaired by Deena Joy D. Amatong, Assistant Secretary for European Affairs at the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs, and Paola Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the EEAS. EU Member States and Philippine government agencies participated to discuss shared challenges and opportunities in promoting human rights and good governance.
Common Commitments on Human Rights and Governance
Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to human rights, the rule of law, due process, and good governance. In a time of rising geopolitical tensions, the EU and the Philippines stressed their joint responsibility to uphold and promote the principles enshrined in the UN Charter. They condemned reported violations of human rights and international humanitarian law worldwide and stressed the need for transparent and accountable governance both domestically and internationally.
Fighting Corruption and Strengthening Public Trust
Corruption was identified as a critical obstacle to efficient public service delivery, investor confidence, and inclusive development. The EU welcomed the Philippines’ efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability and underscored that tackling corruption is essential for restoring public trust and improving governance. Both sides acknowledged ongoing efforts to enhance governance frameworks and anti-corruption measures as central to sustainable development goals.
Human Rights Engagement and UN Cooperation
The Philippines outlined progress on international human rights engagement, including its mid-term report on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) recommendations from its 4th cycle. The EU encouraged continued invitations to UN Special Procedures Mandate Holders and reaffirmed the importance of the Philippines’ Chairship of ASEAN in 2026 for strengthened regional human rights cooperation with the ASEAN Inter-Governmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR).
National Human Rights Architecture and Civil Society
The Philippines presented its 4th National Action Plan on Human Rights and updates from the Special Committee on Human Rights Coordination (SCHRC) and the United Nations Joint Programme for Human Rights. Both sides emphasized involving the Philippine Commission on Human Rights and civil society organizations in implementing the Action Plan and in ongoing human rights work. The EU encouraged progress toward adopting the Charter on the National Commission for Human Rights and welcomed anti-discrimination and inclusivity measures in legislation.
Judicial Reforms, Justice Access, and Digital Rights
The dialogue covered efforts to improve access to justice, reduce prison congestion, and promote restorative justice. The EU noted progress on formalizing a National Forensic Institute and autopsy protocols for deaths under suspicious circumstances. Discussions also addressed freedom of expression, press freedom, and the safety of journalists, with ongoing concerns about enforced disappearances and the protection of media workers in both the physical and online domains.
Business, Human Rights, and the Drug Policy Framework
Participants examined business and human rights, especially in extractive and digital sectors. The EU urged a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, including meaningful involvement of local communities and indigenous peoples. A human-rights-based approach to drug policy was also highlighted, with regular reviews to align with international standards.
Looking Ahead and Next Steps
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to child safety online, protection for human rights defenders, and safeguarding civil society spaces. They discussed ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug use through a health-centered, rights-based approach and to advance justice sector reforms under the Enabling Justice and Rule of Law in the Philippines programme. The next Sub-Committee Meeting is scheduled for Manila in 2026, signaling a continuing dialogue aimed at strengthening governance, rule of law, and human rights in bilateral cooperation.
