15 October 2024 - H.E. Ambassador Junever M. Mahilum-West, in her address at the plenary meeting of the 220th Session of the UNESCO Executive Board, highlighted the Philippines’ strong support for the adoption of The Pact for the Future (Pact). She emphasized that this significant milestone strengthens multilateralism and global governance, reflecting a shared commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future.
In line with UNESCO’s mandate, Ambassador Mahilum-West underscored the Pact’s recognition of culture as a crucial driver of sustainable development, its commitment to safeguarding human rights in the digital era, and its call for accessible, high-quality education for all.
She also shared several Philippine initiatives that align with UNESCO’s core areas of competence, including the country's upcoming hosting of the International Marine Science Conference and the 3rd UN Ocean Decade Regional Conference in 2027, the operationalization of the Board of the Fund Responding to Loss and Damage at COP28, the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, and the recent enactment of the Cultural Mapping Law, which acknowledges culture as a global public good.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, in her response to country statements, expressed anticipation of working closely with the Philippines, particularly on climate change—identified as the most pressing threat to the conservation of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. She commended the Philippines for its leadership in addressing this global challenge.
The 220th Session of the Executive Board will continue until 23 October 2024, with members set to discuss a wide range of topics, including the 2026-2029 budget, human resources strategy, the review of recommendations on education and science, and the procedure for electing the next Director-General, among others.
