MANILA -- The United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), recently contributed close to Php7 million ($125,000) to the Philippines-United Nations (UN) Joint Programme for Human Rights. 

These new funds will support the Philippine government in strengthening accountability mechanisms and promoting human rights in the country. 

U.S. President Joseph R. Biden Jr. expressed support for advancing human rights in the Philippines during his recent meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Washington, D.C.  Promoting respect for human rights and the rule of law, as well as ensuring the safety of civil society leaders and marginalized communities, are among the key priorities in the U.S.-Philippines relationship. 

“Human rights are a critical pillar in development, and we believe it is not possible for any country to rise to its full potential without them,” said U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson.  “We are proud to join the international community in supporting the Philippines to protect human rights and uphold every person’s individual dignity.” 

Launched in 2021, the UN Joint Programme in the Philippines supports government and non-government institutions in critical areas, including safeguarding civic space and engaging with civil society and the Commission on Human Rights.  The three-year initiative also strengthens reporting mechanisms for accountability and promotes human rights-based approaches to drug control. 

“We welcome the contribution of the United States to the UN Joint Programme for Human Rights and their commitment to promote human rights in the Philippines and beyond.  We look forward to engaging with them further on this important work,” said Gustavo González, UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines. (U.S. Embassy in the Philippines)