The Philippines would have voted in favor of a UN General Assembly resolution that called for a humanitarian truce in the Israel-Hamas war had it included Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel.

In a statement on Saturday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) gave further idea why the Philippines abstained from voting during an emergency special session in the UN Headquarters on Friday (New York time).

Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN had earlier explained the Philippines' abstention by saying it did so as the resolution failed to mention or condemn Hamas’ attack that led to the deaths of the civilians, including Filipinos, so the country still stands to recognize Israel’s right to self-defense.

The DFA rather looked forward to the effort initiated by Canada “to include a factual mention in the resolution of the attacks.”

"The Philippine abstained on the vote because of the notable absence of a factual mention in the resolution of the terrorist attacks on 07 October, in which Filipinos were killed. In regard of this Philippine interest, we supported Canada’s proposal to achieve more balance in the draft, with a factual reference to, and condemnation of, the 7 October terrorist attacks by Hamas that killed many innocent civilians including Filipinos working and living in Israel," it said.

"Canada’s proposal was supported by 88 states, but we regret that it fell short of 8 more votes that would have seen this critical element, which is important to the Philippines as to other countries, reflected in an important UN resolution," it added.

DFA made it clear that the Philippines had already made various remarks on the developments in the Israel-Hamas war, which called for swift action to address “the scale of humanitarian suffering” affecting the peoples of both sides.

The agency said the Philippines also joined other ASEAN states and Gulf Cooperation Council members in condemning all the attacks against civilians and calling for their protection, as well as urging for the release of the hostages and for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

"The resolution takes on board sentiments that the Philippines shares with the global community—as conveyed in our statements," it said.

"It also affirms long-standing support for a two-State solution with a safe and independent Palestine and a secure Israel living in peace," it added.

DFA said it would continue supporting efforts of the UN Security Council, the UN humanitarian system and the global community, “to decisively address this crisis and put a stop to the alarming deaths and suffering in Gaza and Israel.”