MANILA – The Philippine government, represented by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), has issued a call for peace in Ukraine as Russia’s aggression against the nation enters its second year.

“On this day marking the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Philippines emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive, just, and enduring peace in Ukraine, by the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter,” stated the DFA in a release on Saturday (24 Feb 2024).

The DFA emphasized that the Philippines has consistently articulated its principled stance on the Ukraine issue, steadfastly supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity.

Since the outbreak of hostilities between Moscow and Kyiv, Manila has consistently voted in favor of all six resolutions presented at the UN General Assembly Emergency Special Session on Ukraine, the DFA noted.

“The Philippines reiterates its call for all concerned parties to pursue a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the conflict,” the statement continued.

“We recall the 1982 Manila Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes, reaffirming the principle that all States must resolve their disputes through peaceful means.”

According to data from the United Nations, at least 10,500 civilians in Ukraine have lost their lives, with many more sustaining injuries. Essential civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, has been decimated, leaving hundreds of towns and villages without electricity during harsh winter conditions.

Millions of people have been displaced and are reliant on humanitarian aid, the DFA highlighted.

Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on February 23, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the imperative of respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence.

“Countless Ukrainians are enduring the unthinkable pain of losing their loved ones. It is essential that all children separated from their families are swiftly reunited,” Guterres asserted.

“The conflict is also exacting a heavy toll on the people of Russia. Thousands of young Russians are losing their lives on the front lines, while civilians in Russian cities targeted by strikes are enduring immense suffering.”

Expressing concern over the escalating risk of the conflict, Guterres cautioned against its further expansion, highlighting its detrimental impact on global stability and cooperation.

“For two years, we have witnessed ongoing conflict, enduring suffering, and escalating global tensions. It is time to say, ‘Enough,'” he concluded.

(By el Amigo/MNM)