RP pushing for stronger drive vs human trafficking

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines is pushing for a “more decisive and united” drive by the international community against trafficking in persons.

In a statement, Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York Libran Cabactulan said “the importance of a harmonized and concerted global response against trafficking cannot be emphasized.”

Cabactulan issued the call even as he hailed the launch of the UN Global Plan of Action against human trafficking. He said the UN program is a concrete step in addressing a “growing global scourge.”

“The fight against human trafficking remains a strong priority for my country, and we continue to intensify our international efforts,” he said.

In July, the Philippines pushed strongly for the UN’s adoption of a resolution launching the UN Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons.

The Philippines called the resolution, which was eventually unanimously approved, “a framework of action to eliminate a crime that has no place in the modern world.”

“We should be taking all opportunity to report, assist, inform, to share and show publicly and loudly that the international community as one intends to bring the many faces of this crime, and of the victims it produces,” Cabactulan said during discussions on the resolution.

The Philippines has been active in the fight against human trafficking. It hosted the 2nd Global Forum on Migration and Development in Manila in September 2008.

The Philippines also sponsored the UN General Assembly Resolution 61/144 on “Trafficking in Women and Girls” in 2006.

The Philippines is also a founding member of the Group of Friends United against Human Trafficking, which now has 20 member-countries.