Anti-poverty campaign aims to set new record

Manila: The Philippines is attempting to set a Guinness world record for the most number of people standing up against poverty for the second straight year.

According to the state-run Philippine News Agency, the United Nations, together with its partners, is set to mobilise three million Filipinos to stand up against poverty in this year's "Stand Up, Speak Out Campaign".

The worldwide UN anti-poverty campaign promotes the attainment of the world body's Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

The Philippine theme for the campaign is "Kumilos, Manindigan! Labanan ang Kahirapan!" (Take Action, Stand Up, Fight Poverty!)

Working with the National Anti-Poverty Commission, All Together in Dignity Fourth World (ATD), and the Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP), three separate events will be held throughout Metro Manila on Wednesday - the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Events will be held at Manila's Central Rizal Park; the Anti-Poverty Fair in suburban Quezon City and the Millennium Development Goals Youth Concert in Taguig City.

Last year's Stand Up Against Poverty Campaign holds the official record title in the Guinness Book of World Records for 24 million people standing up against poverty in 24 hours from 87 countries.

The Philippines ranked third in the Asia Pacific region with 2.4 million Filipinos joining the campaign, after India (nine million), and Nepal (over three million).

On October 17, the actual number and names of participants must be sent to the same e-mail address for inclusion in the final tally.

Through the campaign, the UN continuously reminds governments and leaders of the promises they've made to achieve the MDGs, especially poverty reduction.