CHR urges PNP to ‘completely do away with profiling’

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) to “completely do away with profiling” members of progressive or militant groups.

“Given that this move can easily threaten the basic rights and freedoms of innocent people, we hope the PNP will completely do away with profiling and other similar methods,” CHR Spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement on Tuesday.

“The police can start the year right by ensuring that no method and operation can compromise the basic freedoms, and human dignity of any individual or group,” she added.

The CHR official’s statement came after the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) decried the reported PNP profiling of their affiliates.

But while National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Guillermo Eleazar denied giving directives on profiling teachers, he said there was “nothing illegal” about conducting monitoring activities on personalities or groups since it is part of their work.

READ: Hands off our teachers, ACT tells PNP

However, De Guia said “mere act of profiling already prejudices and discriminates” against members of concerned groups, adding it “is a blatant violation of the basic right to equal protection of the law.”

She also said profiling “infringes on the rights to privacy and association” of an individual.

“Given the climate of harassment and threats against progressive and vocal groups, this move already raises doubts and fears considering that the PNP has not been transparent in doing the profiling, and they gave (neither) solid justification nor legitimate aim for such operation,” De Guia said.

“Further, there is a risk that the list can be utilized to repress legitimate concerns or to silence criticisms or opponents,” she added. /kga