RP gov’t finally hurdles rights issue, bags juicy EU pact

After over two years and several rounds of intense negotiations, the Philippines and the European Union have forged an expanded economic, political and security agreement.

Philippine Ambassador to the EU Enrique Manalo led the Philippine delegation to a two-day negotiation of a Partnership Cooperation Agreement (PCA) with European Commission officials, led by James Moran of the EU’s External Relations Directorate General.

Both sides were also able to hurdle issues on human rights in the Philippines, which has slowed down negotiations in the past.

A senior Foreign Affairs official said both sides were able “find a common ground” and that the EU was “finally convinced” that the Philippine government is serious in addressing the problem.

The EU is one of the strongest critics of the country’s dismal human rights record. Although the number of killings dropped in 2007-2008 after much condemnation by human rights groups and international pressure, extra-judicial killings have persisted in the Philippines.

The EU has been emphasizing the incorporation of protection and promotion of human rights in the joint agreement, saying it should be “one of the cornerstones” of the PCA.

Manalo expressed satisfaction on the conclusion of PCA negotiations stating that the agreement provides a comprehensive framework that will guide the future directions of Philippines-EU relations on the basis of mutual benefit.

He said the earlier cooperation agreement signed by the two parties in 1980 has been deemed outmoded and insufficient to address current challenges and opportunities for the Philippines and the EU.

He added there was a mutually recognized need to update that agreement so as to raise the level of cooperation between the two parties in the context of the 21st century.

“I believe the PCA provides an opportunity and basis for the Philippines and the EU to work closely together in addressing real challenges such as the global financial crisis, migration, the pursuit of development goals, expanding trade and investment, improving development cooperation, and promoting international peace and security, and human rights,” Manalo said.

He noted that the accord will boost the Philippines’ relations with its European partners.

The PCA aims to further advance bilateral cooperation in the areas of politico-security, human rights, counter-terrorism, promoting trade and investment, development cooperation, education and culture, energy, transport and migration.

Since 2006, a series of inter-agency consultations were held in Manila to consider a draft agreement proposed by the EU. –Michaela P. del Callar, Daily Tribune