The Philippines, represented by the Department of National Defense (DND), recently reaffirmed its dedication to participating more actively in international peacekeeping operations. At the 2023 United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting (UNPKMM), DND Undersecretary for Capability Assessment and Development, Angelito de Leon, led the Philippine delegation and made significant commitments to enhance the country’s peacekeeping capabilities.
During the meeting, Undersecretary de Leon pledged the deployment of one Quick Reaction Force Company and one Military Engineering Company to the UN Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System. This commitment is in addition to the existing Force Headquarters Support Unit and Aeromedical Evacuation Module that the Philippines had previously offered. By providing a quick reaction force company, the Philippines aims to strengthen the effectiveness of peacekeeping operations.
Moreover, Undersecretary de Leon emphasized the Philippines’ ongoing commitment to contribute trainers for the UN Mobile Training Teams and the UN Military Experts on Mission (UNMems). Notably, the UNMems comprise a significant number of female officers, recognizing the crucial role that women play in promoting holistic approaches in peacekeeping environments.
The Philippines has a long history of active engagement in UN peacekeeping efforts, spanning 60 years. Over this period, the country has deployed approximately 15,000 Filipino soldiers to 21 peacekeeping operations and special political missions. This extensive experience demonstrates the Philippines’ expertise and dedication to maintaining peace and security on an international scale.
Undersecretary de Leon also shared plans to establish a Formed Police Unit, in addition to the Individual Police Officers, for the UN Mission in South Sudan. Furthermore, he expressed the Philippine National Police’s intention to host the 2024 rollout of the UN Certified Instructors Development Course. This course will cater to international participants from neighboring Police Contributing Countries, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among nations involved in peacekeeping efforts.
The UNPKMM serves as a biennial high-level event that brings together foreign and defense ministers, along with other senior leaders from UN member states. The primary objective is to collectively strengthen the effectiveness of peacekeeping operations and their impact on the communities they serve. It provides a platform for countries to share insights, best practices, and innovative approaches to peacekeeping.
In addition to the main event, Undersecretary de Leon took the opportunity to hold bilateral meetings with several countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Bangladesh, Cyprus, Fiji, France, Latvia, Mongolia, and New Zealand. These meetings allowed for valuable exchanges on peacekeeping strategies, regional challenges, and potential areas of collaboration.
Accompanying Undersecretary de Leon were officials from the Philippine Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, the Office for UN and Other International Organizations of the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Their presence highlights the collaborative effort and coordination among different government agencies to support the Philippines’ active involvement in international peacekeeping.
The Philippines’ reaffirmation of its commitment to international peacekeeping operations at the UNPKMM demonstrates the country’s dedication to maintaining global peace and security. By deploying additional resources and contributing expertise, the Philippines aims to enhance the effectiveness of peacekeeping efforts and contribute to the well-being of communities affected by conflicts worldwide.
Source: The Manila Times
