The Philippines voted to support a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution that expresses “explicit condemnation” of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, denouncing the Kremlin’s attacks on its neighboring country.
“The Philippines votes Yes to the UNGA resolution and expresses explicit condemnation of the invasion of Ukraine,” the Philippines’ statement read in an emergency meeting of the UNGA.
“In the current fog of lies, we have yet to determine the casualties on both sides. We appeal for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructures,” it added.
The country emphasized that “The principle of sovereignty and the sovereign equality of States is enshrined in the UN Charter.”
“All States enjoy the right to full sovereignty in all areas of jurisdiction. The Charter of the UN requires sovereign states to refrain from the use of force against the political independence and territorial integrity of any state.”
Manila called for massive humanitarian assistance “commensurate with the growing humanitarian crisis.”
“Safe access to humanitarian assistance must be assured by the most effective means,” it added.
Over 300 Filipinos live in Ukraine, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Many of them were initially undecided about leaving the country in hopes that the conflict would fizzle out. However, fierce fighting continued across Ukraine, resulting in 352 civilian casualties.
Six Filipinos in Ukraine, including a two-year-old child, evacuated the country and reached the border of Moldova, the DFA confirmed Monday.
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