Press Release
July 18, 2009

PROTECT AND PREVENT MISUSE OF RED CROSS AND RED CRESCENT -ANGARA

Sen. Edgardo J. Angara today urged for a policy of amity, autonomy, justice, cooperation and peace especially in these times when conflict continue to ensue in the Mindanao area.

"It is the government's responsibility to protect and prevent misuse of the emblem. The Red Cross and Red Crescent signify medical and humanitarian assistance. It is a recognized utility for protection conferred by the Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols on medical personnel, medical units and transports in time of armed conflict," said Angara who chairs the Senate Committee on Finance.

SB 3244 or "The Red Cross and other Emblems Act" reaffirms the country's commitment in upholding the correct and proper usage of Red Cross, Red Crescent and Red Crystal Emblems in protecting humanitarian workers, vehicles, facilities especially in times of war and other violent situations.

On February 14, 1947, the Philippines declared its adherence to the 1864 Geneva Conventions. Just two months later, the country established the Philippine National Red Cross through RA 95 of 1947. After which, the Philippines joined 193 other nations that ratified the Four Geneva Conventions of August 12, 1949 with which it was ratified in the country in the year 1952.

"Protecting and preventing any type of misuse of the emblem illustrates our respect and value for a world-esteemed insignia of peace, help and medical reinforcement," he added.

In the bill, the following provisions were made:

Defining the emblems' use:

Protective Use - The emblem used as a protective device during armed conflict is the visible sign of the protection conferred by the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols on medical personnel and medical units and transports in time of armed conflict.

Indicative Use - The emblem shows that a person or an object is linked to an institution of the International Movement of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

Moreover, any form of misuse of the Red Cross, the Red Crescent or the Red Crystal emblem as an Indicative Device in Peacetime and In Time of Armed Conflict is penalized.

He added, "Safety and the protection of human life should be a priority for the government. We should commit ourselves in protecting no only the lives of the innocent but also those that symbolizes refuge and the principles of peace and concern for the community."

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