The importance and acceptance of the human rights lens in business have been increasing globally for the past years, driven by evolving regulations, investor demand, business relationships, and public interest.51 Companies are beginning to recognize that its environmental, social, and governance policies and practices are inextricably linked to the long-term health of their businesses. Thus, it should strive to improve the well-being of its employees, the community, and the planet. In turn, a society with strong human rights allows the free flow of information, investment, and entrepreneurial innovation. Financial Costs of Neglecting Human Rights50  1998 Mitsubishi lawsuit (sexual harassment, USA): USD$34 million  2001 DuPont lawsuit (pollution, USA): USD$235 million, medical expenses of over 70,000 people  2003 Nike lawsuit (Kasky v. Nike, denial of labor abuses): USD$1.5 million  2013 Shell/BASF lawsuit (land & underground water contamination, Brazil): USD$316 million The benefits for the business respect of human rights in their operations are as follows: 52  increased employee productivity Human Resource Case  talent attraction and retention  improved worker relations  ensure license to operate Reputational Case  better manage and mitigate reputational risks  prevent litigation  more secured supply chains Operational Case  anticipate new regulation  business continuity due to lower risks  meet investor expectations or requirements Financial Case  reduced cost of capital  customer acquisition and loyalty Moreover, in today’s highly competitive business environment, it is not enough that businesses produce quality products at an affordable price. Comparative advantage is slowly shifting as more consumers and stakeholders demand products that are made under gender-sensitive and safe working conditions, use biodegradable materials without causing harm to the environment, to name a few. Given these trends, a business demonstrating its commitment to respecting human rights will have significant opportunities to differentiate itself from its competitors, gain higher consumer trust levels, and enhance its engagement with its stakeholders. It will produce short-term benefits and contribute to the long-term sustainability of businesses. Benefits of Respecting Human Rights Evidence from the Better Work program of the ILO and the International Finance Corporation53 shows that:  in participating factories in Vietnam with comfortable and trusting work environment, profitability is 7.6% higher, workers reach daily production targets nearly 40 minutes faster, and the revenue-cost ratio increased by 25%  in factories in Indonesia, training line supervisors, especially women, has shown to result in a 22% increase in productivity 3.3. CSOs The vibrant civil society in the Philippines serves as a bridge between the communities and other stakeholders, particularly the government, the business sector, and international organizations. Rather than perceiving CSOs as a deterrent or, in some cases, a nuisance, these 12