The Armed Forces of the Philippines reiterated its promise that it will continue to protect and promote human rights in the country.

AFP Vice Chief of Staff Major General Arthur Cordura made the commitment in front of the enlisted personnel and civilian human resources of the AFP.

"As soldiers in the noble profession of arms, part of our pledge in defending the lives and freedom of the Filipino people and our beloved nation is to strengthen our steadfast commitment to respecting and promoting the rights of our fellow citizens," Cordura said.

Meanwhile, AFP Center for Law of Armed Conflict director BGen. Joel Alejandro Nacnac led the attendees in reciting the pledge of commitment, which reminds the AFP members of their essential role in safeguarding the rights of the people whom they swore to protect.

The AFP-CLOAC is also set to facilitate various activities to further educate and raise the awareness of military personnel about human rights protection.

These efforts are in line celebration of this year's National Human Rights Consciousness Week from 4 to 10 December dubbed "Pagtaguyod at Pagsulong ng mga Karapatang Pantao tungo sa Matatag na Pundasyon ng Kapayapaan, Katarungan, Kalikasan, Kaunlaran at Bayanihan."

The week-long celebration was introduced by Republic Act 9201 on 1 April 2003.

AFP said the public and private institutions are also urged to participate by propagating a culture of respect for human rights as well as promoting peace-building, and national unity.