FILE PHOTO: The Philippine Senate honors former United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon for his “extraordinary” contributions to global diplomacy, peacekeeping efforts, and sustainable development. Associated Press
MANILA, Philippines — Senators honored former United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon for his “extraordinary” contributions to global diplomacy, peacekeeping efforts, and sustainable development.
Senate Resolution No. 929, expressing the “profound sense of the Senate in honoring” Ban and commending his “outstanding global contributions,” was unanimously adopted on the floor.
All 24 senators were made co-authors of theresolution initiated by Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda.
“Throughout his 10 years of service, Secretary-General Ban exemplified unwavering dedication to global diplomacy, peacekeeping, and sustainable development,” Legarda said when she sponsored the measure.
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From January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2016, Ban served as UN Secretary General for two terms.
“His tenure was defined by a steadfast commitment to fostering peace, advancing sustainable development, and tackling pressing global challenges such as climate change, economic instability, pandemics, and human rights violations,” the senator added.
Several senators stood up in the plenary to co-sponsor Legarda’s resolution.
The Senate had to suspend its rules to allow Ban to personally receive the commendation.
“I am deeply grateful for this esteemed honor, and very humbled by the unique opportunity afforded to me to deliver a few words,” Ban said as he took the Senate rostrum to address the Filipino legislators.
“I have also heard that this is the very first time that a speaking occasion has been afforded to a visiting foreign dignitary. This is indeed a profound and unforgettable honor for me personally as well,” he continued.
Ban later spoke about the bravery of UN peacekeepers, the heroism of aid workers responding to disasters and the courage of health specialists providing care in the most dangerous places in the world.
“Looking back, bringing the entire world together to agree to the landmark UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and Paris Climate Change Agreement in 2015 was really my proud achievement; but our work is certainly not done yet,” he also said.
“Indeed, climate crisis, pandemics, regional conflicts as well as economic crises disrupt human societies; our progress on achieving the 17 SDGs ahead of their 2030 target date has stagnated. In some sectors it has reversed,” he added.
Ban likewise took the opportunity to thank the Filipino troops for their “noble sacrifice” to save Korea’s freedom and democracy during the Korean War.
On March 3, the two countries will mark their 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
“I sincerely hope that our bilateral relations will continue to be deepened and expanded for the mutual benefit of our two peoples,” Ban said.