Binay to grace opening of Social Watch 2011 Global Assembly

MANILA, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay will grace the opening rites of the Social Watch 2011 Global Assembly on July 12, which will be attended by delegates from over 60 countries at the Sulo Riviera Hotel in Quezon City.

Around 100 delegates are representing various national coalitions that form part of the Social Watch international network of citizens’ organizations campaigning for social justice.

These organizations include women’s groups, human rights activists, unionists, environmentalists and other campaigners.

A staunch human rights defender especially during the height of the Marcos dictatorship and a former student activist, Binay is expected to share his insights on the quest for social justice and equality, both in the Philippines and in the world.

The organizers and delegates of the event expressed hope that the Vice President’s speech would deal with key issues involving governance, which includes “an assessment of the achievements of the government, especially after one year in office; an identification of ongoing challenges and issues which the government faces, including issues that have an international dimension; and policy recommendations on the way forward.

“This will be the 5th Global Assembly of Social Watch. The last one was held in Ghana, South Africa in 2009. Social Watch Philippines (SWP) is happy to host this big event and honored to have the Vice President in our opening rites. I look forward to hearing the Vice President’s insights on migration and protecting our OFW’s rights as this is definitely a niche he has carved in his first year as our VP,” Jessica Reyes-Cantos, convenor of SWP, said.

Leonor Magtolis Briones, SWP’s lead convenor, said there are lots of challenges for citizens’ groups and civil society organizations.