House OKs bill extending validity of funds for Marcos’ human rights victims on 2nd reading

The House of Representatives has approved on second reading a joint resolution extending the validity and availability of the fund for victims of human rights violations during the regime of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

The lower chamber, via voice voting, approved House Joint Resolution 26 seeking to extend to Dec. 31, 2019 the availability of funds intended for the victims of human rights violations during the Marcos rule.

It also seeks to authorize the Bureau of Treasury and the Land Bank of the Philippines to release the funds and ensure the payment of claims.

The resolution also mandates the Commission on Human Rights to administer the effective distribution of the funds to qualified victims or their heirs or representatives, as provided for under Republic Act 10368 or the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013.

The resolution aims to “fulfill the purpose of RA 10368” and “help enhance human rights as the vital nexus connecting the sacrifices and heroism of the past to building a fair and functioning Philippine society in the future.”

Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate introduced the measure. /ee