European Union (EU) is planning to provide approximately P338 million (€5.55 million) to support the promotion of human rights and local governance by civil society organizations in the Philippines, says a statement issued by its delegation in Manila recently.
Lubomir Frebort, EU charge d’affaires, said in a statement that the launching of the Calls for Proposals “reaffirms the commitment of the European Union to human rights and to good governance, which are at the core of European principles and values.”
While explaining the plans, he added that supporting such programs is important for the development and strengthening of the Philippines as a state, and also takes into account the most vulnerable sectors of society.
“Civil society is, in the Philippines, a particularly dynamic and valuable social actor, and plays a very active role in the promotion of human rights and in the enhancement of local governance,” Frebort said.
“The Calls for Proposals that are being launched today constitute a substantial support to NGO’s efforts and will increase their capacities to make a positive contribution in a variety of sectors,” he added.
Mr. Frebort also highlighted how important it is to support the programs for the situation of human rights defenders, the protection of women and children rights, and the promotion of the economic and social rights of the most vulnerable groups, as well as the accountability, the transparency and the performance of local government units.
It is reported that the first Call for Proposals will focus on human rights, and will be given the provision of P55 million (€900,000) under the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights – Country-based Support Scheme.
The second Call for Proposals has been launched under the Non-State Actors and Local Authorities program with a budget provision of P283 million (€4.65 million) aimed towards the improvement of the level of transparency and accountability in the local government units.
