As delivered Madam Chair, Distinguished Members of the Committee, All that I have mentioned in this Opening Statement do not give justice to the width and breadth of what the Philippines has done in promoting, protecting, and fulfilling the human rights and freedoms of our Filipino women. And we can dwell on the larger expanse as we move to our constructive dialogue today. But before finally getting to this next phase, allow me to mention some truths that must be fully appreciated by this Committee: The Philippines sees its role as a human rights duty bearer. The Philippines, through its current mechanisms, is addressing cases of violence against women with seriousness and in coordination with civil society organizations and non government organizations. The Philippines sees every opportunity to evaluate its human rights record as an opportunity for improvement. This is the reason for its unwavering respect for the work of the United Nations as human rights overseer in such undertakings as the UN treaty body system and its mandate on the consideration of compliance reports. The Philippines respects inclusivity in human rights promotion and protection, particularly as regards women’s rights and freedoms. It may interest this Committee that the Philippines’ compliance report on the CEDAW went through validation Page 15 of 16