CHR urged to “zealously exercise” mandate, media to “exercise prudence” under martial law

June 1, 2017

President Rodrigo Duterte has urged the Commission on Human Rights to "zealously exercise" its mandate to protect the constitutional rights of the people in Mindanao, which has been placed under martial law. This was contained in General Order No. 1 issued on May 30, implementing Proclamation No. 216 declaring martial law in the whole of Mindanao and suspending the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in the region. "In the implementation of this Order, the constitutional rights of the Filipino people shall be respected and protected at all times. The Commission on Human Rights is hereby enjoined to zealously exercise its mandate under the 1987 Constitution, and to aid the Executive in ensuring the continued protection of the constitutional and human rights of all citizens," the GO said. The Order also asked the media practitioners to "exercise prudence" in the performance of their duties so as not to compromise the security and safety of the Armed Forces and law enforcement personnel, and enable them to effectively discharge their duties and functions. The Departments of Social Welfare and Development, Education, and Health, among others, shall exert all efforts to ensure the safety and welfare of all displaced persons and families, especially the children, it added. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the martial law administrator, may issue further guidelines to implement the provisions of GO 1, subject to the limits set in the Constitution and other relevant laws, rules and regulations. (Celerina Monte/DMS)