Commission on Human Rights urge gov’t to uphold rights

May 25, 2017

The Commission on Human Rights urged the government to uphold the humanitarian rights of Filipinos following the martial law declaration of President Rodrigo Duterte in Mindanao. “The 1987 Constitution enforces the respect for all civil liberties and assures the protection of human rights despite such declaration of Martial Law,” said Commission on Human Rights spokesperson Jacqueline Ann De Guia in a statement on Wednesday. De Guia said this includes Filipinos' rights to life, freedom from torture, warrantless arrest and illegal detention. She said “the Philippine Congress, including civilian government institutions such as civilian courts shall remain and will continue with its functions towards ensuring proper checks and balance under this circumstance.” De Guia asked the legislators to exercise “due diligence and consideration in reviewing the merits of martial law.” She reminded the public to remember the lessons of the 1972 martial law declaration of the late President Ferdinand Marcos. “Let us be reminded of the lessons of the 1972 declaration under a regime of dictatorship- that we may never again repeat this dark past and continue to recognize the higher value of human dignity at all times”, de Guia said. De Guia said the Commission on Human Rights condemned the attack of Maute Group in Marawi City and offered their prayers for the safety of the people and security forces in Mindanao. (Alanna Ambi/DMS)