By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to form a special committee dedicated to enhancing human rights protection in the country.
CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc stated on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, that the commission aims to see increased prosecution of cases related to the war on drugs and enforced disappearances.
“An integrated government approach is essential for effectively addressing human rights concerns, complemented by strong partnerships with CSOs and other relevant stakeholders,” Palpal-latoc said.
“Through this coordinating body, we aim to see increased prosecution of cases related to the war on drugs and enforced disappearances, as well as the adoption of a comprehensive human rights-based approach in various government responses, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts, addressing red-tagging, and safeguarding freedom of expression,” he added.
The CHR’s statement follows President Marcos’s order to establish a “Special Committee on Human Rights Coordination.”
The Commission remains optimistic that this initiative is a step in the right direction and will yield concrete and meaningful results, emphasizing a whole-of-society approach.
(el Amigo/MNM)
