CHR seeks probe of rights violations

While the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) respects the presidential and congressional prerogatives on martial law, it pressed an investigation of reported human rights violations.

“Consistent with our stance, the [CHR] believes that the police and military can address threats of terrorism and lawless violence without martial law,” the CHR said in a statement.

“However, in respect of legislative concurrence, we are hopeful that the intent of the extension will not be tarnished by human rights violations,” it added

CHR spokesperson Jacqueline Ann C. de Guia said that the agency was still verifying the reported human rights violations first reported by Amnesty International last November.

The supposed violations include looting by the military, arbitrary arrests, military harassment, enforced disappearances, torture and extrajudicial killings.

De Guia said that its regional offices were still collating and verifying the reports.

“We continue to stress the need to address accounts of human rights violations on the ground,” it  said.

“We also urge the government to hold to account both state and nonstate actors responsible for the atrocities committed against residents,” the CHR added.