25 November 2016 – The Philippines participated in the 135th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly, which was held from October 23 to 27 in Geneva with Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III as head of the Philippine Delegation. This was the first IPU meeting for Senator Pimentel that he leads the Philippine Delegation.

Senate President Pimentel delivered the Philippine Statement during the General Debate on the emergency item with the theme “Human Rights Abuses as Precursors of Conflict: Parliaments as Early Responders.”

Senator Pimentel highlighted in his remarks the recognition by the IPU of the Philippines as a “shining example in Asia of a strong parliamentary involvement in the promotion of human rights”. He also emphasized the crucial role of parliamentarians as the repository of the hopes and aspirations of its people.             

Senate President Pimentel further pointed out that the Philippine Senate fully supports the present administration in its agenda of change to end the proliferation of crime, drugs and corruption.

“As Senate President, I need to echo the clear clamor of our people to finally stop the scourge of illegal drugs as it likewise threatens the basic human rights of all peaceful and law-abiding citizens,” he said.

The IPU was established in 1889 and serves as the focal point for world-wide parliamentary dialogue.  It works for peace and cooperation among peoples and for the firm establishment of a representative democracy.   The bi-annual IPU Assembly brings together parliamentarians from all parties of their respective countries to study international problems and make recommendations for action.  The Assembly has four (4) Standing Committees, namely: 1) on Democracy and Human Rights; 2) on Peace and International Security; 3) on Sustainable Development, Finance and Trade; and 4) on United Nations Affairs. END