The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) and the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 14 October 2026 in Quezon City, Philippines, to strengthen institutional cooperation, knowledge-sharing and capacity-building between the two National Human Rights Institutions.

The programme commenced with welcome remarks by Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines Chairperson Richard P. Palpal-latoc, followed by an opening message from HRCM President Dr. Aishath Rameela. Dr. Rameela highlighted the importance of the agreement in fostering institutional learning and strengthening human rights protection in both countries.

HRCM Vice President Mohamed Shafeeg Mahmood delivered a presentation on the Commission’s mandate, programmes and initiatives. The programme also included presentations by the Philippine Commission on Human Rights on its work in protection, policy, prevention and promotion, providing an opportunity for both institutions to exchange knowledge and experiences.

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation through joint training, expert exchanges, study visits and knowledge-sharing initiatives. Dr. Rameela emphasised that sustained engagement and practical initiatives would be essential to translating the agreement into meaningful outcomes for human rights protection in both countries.