Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 28) — The Philippine government has decided to abstain from the United Nation’s (UN) call to provide an “immediate humanitarian truce” between Israel and militant group Hamas, with a progressive alliance group lambasting this supposed support for the “continued genocide” in Gaza.
The Philippines was among the 45-member states who opted to abstain from the resolution. A total of 120 voted in favor, while 14 were against.The UN General Assembly sought to have “continuous, sufficient and unhindered” delivery of supplies and services for people currently trapped in Gaza as the military conflict continues to worsen, with reports of Israel expanding its ground operations.While the Philippines backs “many elements” in the resolution, the DFA said it failed to mention the terrorist attacks launched on Oct. 7 that resulted in massive deaths, including some Filipinos.“In regard of this Philippine interest, we supported Canada’s proposal to achieve more balance in the draft, with a factual reference to, and condemnation of, the 7 October terrorist attacks by Hamas that killed many innocent civilians including Filipinos working and living in Israel,” it said on Saturday.The DFA said that the Philippines “continue to support efforts of the UN… to decisively put a stop to the alarming deaths and suffering in Gaza and Israel, assist those in need of humanitarian help, and restore peace and normalcy to the lives of millions of people affected by this crisis.”Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) president Renato Reyes, Jr. criticized the Philippines’ decision as “utterly shameful.”“Neutrality in the time of genocide is unacceptable,” Reyes said in a statement Saturday.The situation in Gaza has reached its worst so far since the bombings began,” he continued. “We cannot as a country remain silent to the unfolding catastrophe. Shame on the Philippine government. No regard for human rights at home, no regard for human rights abroad.”The Bayan official even said that the DFA’s explanation was “a total cop out.”
