President Duterte highlighted in his speech before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) the Philippines' "longstanding humanitarian tradition" in the government's decision to welcome refugees coming from Afghanistan.
Duterte--in what can be described as a feel-good moment for the Philippines during his 15-minute speech--said the country will always uphold humanity in this regard even with the difficulties caused by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
"The Philippines, in line with its longstanding humanitarian tradition, has opened its doors to Afghan nationals, especially women and children fleeing the country. As one global community we must do our utmost to help the Afghan people and all those who continue to suffer," Duterte said in a taped message that was shown Wednesday morning, Sept. 22 during the High-Level General Debate of the 76th Session of the UNGA.
'The Philippines has limited resources during these extraordinary times, but what we can do for humanity, and...human dignity, we will," he stressed.
Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. was the first to confirm the presence of Afghan refugees in the country two weeks ago. Locsin was the one physically present at the UNGA in New York in the United States (US), and was the one who introduced Duterte to the body.
Like Locsin, Duterte didn't give any details as to how many Afghan refugees have been flown into the Philippines.
"We will pay the price for the misadventure of the few that spiral into humanitarian disasters," the Philippine leader said.
The return to power of the Taliban in Afghanistan last month triggered the exodus of both locals and foreigners who believed that their lives were in danger.
Duterte also gave an update on the Philippines' response to the Rohingya crisis.
"For the Rohingyas, I have instructed our Department of Justice (DOJ) to work closely with the UN High Commissioner on Refugees to prepare a cooperation program for a specific number of Rohingyas consistent with our capacity," he said.
The Philippines is also known for opening its doors to some 1,300 Jews amid their persecution by Nazi Germany during World War II.