CHR: Recent attacks no cause for declaring nationwide martial law

The Commission on Human Rights on Wednesday condemned the bombings in Jolo, Sulu, which killed at least 21 people; the attack on a mosque in Zamboanga City, which left two dead; and the murder of National Democratic Front consultant Randy Malayao in Nueva Vizcaya, but these incidents would not justify the declaration of martial law nationwide.

“We urge the government to make all perpetrators accountable and prevent similar incidents from happening. We extend our sympathies to all families and friends of all the victims in this trying time, as we hope that these waves of violence do not spoil our vision for a just and lasting peace,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline De Guia said in a text message, referring to the Jolo and Zamboanga bombings.

However, De Guia said those events “should not, in any way, be construed as a reason for a nationwide imposition of martial law. “

De Guia said the CHR would still have to objectively assess the effect of martial law on the ground, an issue that was still under discussion at the Supreme Court.

But she said: “With or without martial law, it is clear that the government has the primary obligation to ensure the safety and protect the rights of all people.”

In another statement, De Guia said the commission was alarmed by the killing in Nueva Vizcaya of Randy Malayao, an activist who is also a peace consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.

“His death comes at a time when voices of opposition and human rights groups are tagged as enemies, making them possible subjects of assaults,” she said. “As it is necessary to know the truth, CHR-Region II [Cagayan Valley Region] shall be investigating the case in recognition of the primacy of a person’s right to life and in helping make perpetrators accountable for this crime.” /atm