A proposed measure in the Senate seeks to strengthen the Philippines’ legal protection system for refugees and stateless persons by establishing clearer procedures, safeguards, and access to basic services for those seeking protection in the country.
Senate Bill No. 616, or the proposed Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Act, aims to institutionalize mechanisms for recognizing and assisting refugees and stateless individuals in accordance with the country’s humanitarian commitments and obligations under international law.
The bill proposes the creation of a Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Board under the Department of Justice (DOJ), which would serve as the central authority in evaluating applications for refugee or stateless status.
Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla, who is pushing for the measure’s passage, said the proposal reflects the Philippines’ long tradition of providing refuge to people fleeing war, persecution, and violence.
“Ang Pilipinas ay matagal nang naging tahanan ng mga taong tumatakas sa digmaan, pag-uusig, at kaguluhan. Bilang mga Pilipino na minsan ding nakaranas ng pananakop, paglikas, at paghahanap ng pagkalinga, nauunawaan natin ang halaga ng isang bansang handang tumanggap at tumulong,” Padilla said.
Under the measure, the government would be provided a formal legal framework for determining refugee and stateless status while ensuring that qualified individuals receive legal protection and access to essential services.
The proposed board would also help ensure the Philippines’ compliance with its commitments under international conventions, including the 1951 United Nations Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol, as well as the 1954 Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Persons.
The measure also seeks to balance humanitarian protection with national security by setting clear eligibility requirements and screening procedures for applicants.
“Hindi ito tungkol sa pagbubukas ng ating bansa nang walang limitasyon. Ito ay tungkol sa pagkakaroon ng maayos, malinaw, at makataong sistema na naaayon sa ating batas at sa ating pandaigdigang obligasyon,” the senator said.
The proposal comes as armed conflicts, political instability, and humanitarian crises continue to displace millions of people worldwide.
“Sa panahon na milyun-milyong tao sa buong mundo ang nawalan ng tahanan dahil sa digmaan at pag-uusig, kailangang maipakita ng Pilipinas na nananatili tayong bansa ng malasakit, dignidad, at paggalang sa karapatang pantao,” he noted.
The bill is also expected to strengthen coordination among the Philippine government, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and other international organizations in responding to humanitarian emergencies.
“Ang tunay na lakas ng isang bansa ay hindi lamang nasusukat sa kakayahan nitong ipagtanggol ang sarili, kundi pati sa kakayahan nitong tumulong sa mga nangangailangan habang pinangangalagaan ang sariling seguridad at interes ng sambayanan,” he added.
The measure is being pushed as part of the country’s continuing commitment to human dignity, international law, and humanitarian principles.