Make an
impact today
Join PACCI in advocating for a better future for refugees and asylum seekers. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind.
The Philippines has a history of providing refuge to individuals fleeing persecution and conflict. Here are the key aspects of Philippine policies and practices regarding refugees:
-
✽
The Philippines is a signatory to the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol, committing to international standards for refugee treatment and protection.
-
✽
Established by the Department of Justice (DoJ), Refugee and Stateless Persons Protection Unit (RSPPU) determines asylum seekers’ status and ensures their protection under Philippine law.
-
✽
Executive Order No. 163 (2022) Institutionalizing access to protection services for refugees, stateless persons and asylum seekers.
-
✽
The Philippine government, in collaboration with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), conducts Refugee Status Determination (RSD) to recognize individuals as refugees.
-
✽
The Philippines demonstrates humanitarian commitment by offering asylum, such as to Vietnamese boat people in the 1970s - 1980s and more recently, Rohingya refugees.
-
✽
Recognized refugees have rights to reside, work, and access education and healthcare. Government, NGOs, and international organizations like UNHHCR support their local integration.
-
✽
Certificate of Pending Application (CPA). Given by the Philippines Government for Asylum Seekers who apply for Refugee status in the country. Allowing temporary stay and access to basic services.
These policies uphold the Philippines’ commitment to offering refuge and protecting the rights and dignity of displaced individuals.
A Call for Action:
PACCI’s Advocacy for Refugees and Rightsholders
In 2023, global conflicts have driven unprecedented levels of forced displacement. According to UNHCR Global Trends report the crisis in Sudan has affected around 6 million people, with 1.2 million fleeing to neighboring countries. In Myanmar, violence following the military takeover has displaced over 1.3 million people within the country. The ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip has led to the displacement of up to 1.7 million people in Palestine, resulting in severe shortages and suffering. These displacements highlight the collapse of dialogue, diplomacy, and peace. Currently, over 120 million people worldwide are refugees, asylum seekers, or internally displaced. Data of UNHCR in the Philippines shows that government agencies assist around 2,000 refugees and asylum seekers by the end of 2023. Many are still unaware that there are refugees and asylum seekers currently living in different parts of the country. In his speech during the Inaugural National Refugee Day in June 20, 2024, @ the PICC, Dr. Steven Muncy, Executive Director of the Community and Family Services International (CFSI), shared insights on the favourable protection environment that the Philippines has been upholding for years, pointing out that this was not the case “in every country.”
“In the Philippines, you have a Government, UN agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and the private sector that are all willing to work together for the benefit of other people, particularly if they’re vulnerable, disadvantaged, and in great need. And that’s really a testament of the Philippines. It’s not the case in every country. So, I would love for the Filipinos to take credit for what this country does with other people,” he said. In line with this, Philippine Arab Cooperation Council Inc. (PACCI), the only Refugee Led Organization (RLO) in the Philippines supported refugees and asylum seekers through f inancial assistance during emergencies. PACCI has been a beacon of hope for many displaced individuals, providing essential support and services since 2018. Its Refugee Resource Center (RRC) and Refugee Resource Hub WhatsApp Group foster community and vital communication among rightsholders making significant strides in improving their lives.
In consortium with CFSI and funded by VOICE Global/ Philippines, PACCI initiated the project, “Empowering Refugee Women and Youth towards Self Reliance and Socio-Economic Integration in the Philippines” in year 2022, aiming to aid women and youth refugees in their struggles to get employment in the Philippines. Recognizing the diverse needs and aspirations of refugees and asylum seekers, we welcomed participants of all gender and ages. The program focuses on bridging language barriers and enhancing vocational skills to facilitate successful integration into the workforce or to assist them in starting their own businesses. In two years, PACCI was able to make a positive impact on the lives of 209 displaced individuals.
In these challenging times, we are reminded of the strength that lies in unity and the power of collective action that is why your support, in any way, can make a real difference! Let us remember that our combined efforts and shared compassion can transform lives and foster resilience.
Sources:
https://www.unhcr.org/global-trends
https://reporting.unhcr.org/operational/operations/philippines
https://www.unhcr.org/ph/54817-philippines-highlights-whole-of-society approach-to-forced-displacement-statelessness-for-1st-national-refugee day.html
Share the Campaign:
Spread what PACCI is doing. Share PACCI page on social media, read the significant stories of refugees in the Philippines and encourage family and friends to learn about us too!
You can help us by:
-
VOLUNTEER
Join us or participate in our organization’s events, fundraising, and information sessions to support refugee programs. Contribute your time and skills to make an impact in their lives!
-
DONATE
Provide financial support to aid PACCI’s ongoing mission.
-
COMMIT
Establish long-term partnerships and resource mobilization.
