UNHCR, PAO renew agreement on free legal aid for refugees
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This is the fourth renewal of the agreement, which was first signed in 2013.
At the virtual signing of the MOU on 28 April, Chief Public Attorney Persida V. Rueda-Acosta said that in line with Philippines’ “long tradition of opening its doors and extending its kindness to people seeking refuge,” the PAO can assure its continued commitment to providing free legal services to POC.
According to Acosta, over the eight years that the MOU has been in effect, the PAO has provided over 5,000 judicial and quasi-judicial services to POC, including assistance on civil, criminal, and labor cases, as well as proceedings related to immigration and detention.
Published May 9, 2021, 12:22 PM
Public Attorney’s Office
The Public Attorney’s Office (PAO), an attached agency of the Department of Justice (DOJ), will continue providing legal assistance to refuges, asylum seekers and displaced individuals.
PAO Chief Persida V. Rueda Acosta said the agency has renewed its agreement with the United Nations High Commissioner on Refugees (UNHCR).
“We are fortunate that the Philippines has a long tradition of opening its doors and extending its kindness to people seeking refuge,” Acosta said.
She said that President Duterte has announced to the global community his policy to accept everyone fleeing for safety as she noted that in recent years “the international community is faced with a surge of people fleeing their countries due to war, persecution, and other atrocities.”