RECOMMENDATIONS TO FURTHER MAINSTREAM UNGPs IN THE PHILIPPINES The CHR has acknowledged that much is needed to fully adopt the UNGPs on BHR in the Philippines. The many existing and overlapping laws related to business and human rights have caused more chaos than order. Thus, there is a need to undertake more studies to make these laws complementary, using the UNGPs as a synchronizing framework. According to Atty. Jesus Torres of the CHR, the Commission, alongside with other stakeholders, should come together and develop a collaborative platform to minimize the adversarial handling of cases.7 Also, it is important to establish the indicators that will be used in monitoring BHR to foster agreements and understanding in observing these guidelines. Along this direction, the following activities are recommended: n Convene a multi-stakeholder consultation upon the development of the National Action Plan on the UN Guiding Principles on BHR; n Engage business sector in constructive dialogues on BHR, and document and disseminate good practices; n Conduct workshops among stakeholders, particularly the vulnerable sectors to help them know better their rights, the mechanisms, and options they have in dealing with investors/ businesses; and, n For the academe to help in conducting studies that would strengthen and simplify the adoption of UNGPs such as a) analyzing the gaps in existing Philippine laws related to BHR; and b) linking success of businesses to its observance of human rights. The implementation of the UNGPs in the Philippines is important not only in rectifying business-related human rights violations, but also in preventing future injustices given the increasing investments in agriculture. Complementary policy guidelines should also be promoted such as the recognition of land right as a human right. On a more urgent note, there is need for immediate response to the adverse impacts of mining and corporate business operations in ancestral lands that are affecting indigenous communities. n Interview with Atty. Jesus Torres, Economic, Social, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ESCR) Center Chief, Commission on Human Rights. 7 10