PH votes for UN reso demanding protection, aid for Ukraine

MANILA –The Philippines has joined 139 other countries in voting for a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution on the scale of humanitarian woes caused by Russia’s attack on Ukraine.

During the 11th Emergency Special Session on March 24, the UNGA adopted Resolution A/ES-11/L.2 on the humanitarian consequences of the aggression against the Eastern European nation, with 140 countries, including the Philippines, voting in favor; 38 abstentions; and five against — Russia, Syria, North Korea, Eritrea, and Belarus.

In a statement Friday, the European Union thanked the Philippine government for voting in favor of the resolution.

“UN General Assembly adopts Resolution A/ES-11/L.2 on the Humanitarian Consequences of the aggression against Ukraine. Once again, salamat, Pilipinas (thank you, Philippines) for being one of the 140 that voted in favor of the resolution,” the EU Delegation in Manila said.

The resolution recognized that Russia’s military offensive and its humanitarian consequences are on a scale that has not been seen in Europe in many decades.

The Assembly demanded full protection for civilians, including humanitarian personnel, journalists and persons in vulnerable situations, women, and children among them. It further demanded full respect for all medical personnel and humanitarian personnel exclusively engaged in medical duties.

Moreover, it called on all parties to protect civilians fleeing armed conflict and violence, including foreign nationals, notably students, without discrimination.

The Assembly then demanded voluntary, safe, and unhindered passage as well as access for humanitarian personnel to those in need within Ukraine and neighboring countries.