Sponsorship Speech by Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda Resolution Honoring 8th UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon

Sponsorship Speech by Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda
Resolution Honoring 8th UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon
February 27, 2024

Mr. President and esteemed colleagues,
I rise today to sponsor the adoption of Senate Resolution No. 929, which honors the extraordinary contributions of the 8th United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon. Throughout his ten years of service, Secretary-General Ban exemplified unwavering dedication to global diplomacy, peacekeeping, and sustainable development.

His tenure was defined by a steadfast commitment to fostering peace, advancing sustainable development, and tackling pressing global challenges such as climate change, economic instability, pandemics, and human rights violations. Secretary-General Ban’s vision centered on strengthening international cooperation, amplifying the voices of the marginalized, and bolstering the UN’s capacity to address contemporary global challenges effectively.

His visit to Tacloban City after Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 symbolized his solidarity with affected communities and his dedication to climate adaptation and resilience-building efforts. Furthermore, his leadership in founding and guiding the Global Commission on Adaptation exemplified his proactive stance on tackling climate change. I had the privilege of witnessing his visionary leadership firsthand when I served alongside him as one of the GCA’s commissioners in 2018.

Mr. President,
Secretary-General Ban’s swift action during health crises, such as the establishment of the UN Mission for Ebola Emergency Response, demonstrated his commitment to combating emerging threats. He also championed women’s rights and gender equality through initiatives like the Unite to End Violence against Women and HeForShe campaigns.

“Saving our planet, lifting people out of poverty, advancing economic growth… these are one and the same fight,” as Secretary-General Ban eloquently stated. His words remind us of the interconnected nature of global challenges and the need for comprehensive, inclusive strategies for sustainable development.

As Chair of the Global Green Growth Institute, Secretary-General Ban continues his mission of promoting climate resilience and sustainability, aligning with our national goals for green and inclusive growth. Yesterday, the Senate sponsored the Agreement between the Philippines and GGGI, furthering our commitment to these objectives.

Mr. President,
It is with humility that I note Secretary-General Ban’s alignment with many of the causes I have long championed, including climate justice, environmental protection, poverty alleviation, public health improvement, gender equality, and human rights. It is indeed an honor for me to sponsor this resolution, recognizing a global figure of such profound dedication and integrity.

In honoring Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today, let us humbly draw inspiration from his remarkable legacy to confront the challenges of our time with renewed resolve. I implore the adoption of this resolution as a sincere token of our deep admiration and respect for his tireless dedication to the welfare of people and planet.

Thank you, Mr. President and esteemed colleagues, for your thoughtful consideration of this resolution.