CHR to probe Barangay Commonwealth’s ‘drug-free’ sticker drive

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday slammed the recent “drug-free” sticker drive in Barangay (village) Commonwealth in Quezon City, citing possible human rights violations.

In a statement, CHR Spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia said that the “absence of proper standards and process in identifying ‘drug-free’ households puts the reputation and security of those claimed to be drug users at risk.”

“While we recognize the intent of curbing the problem of illegal drug, sale, and use, initiatives should always be done within the bounds of law and other Constitutional guarantees, including the presumption of innocence and due process,” De Guia added.

Under the barangay’s campaign, stickers with the phrase “Towards a drug-free barangay” are posted on households whose residents have undergone drug tests offered by the local government.

De Guia, however, said that mandatory drug testing violates the right to privacy and the right against self-incrimination or testifying against oneself.

“This house-to-house caravan, when left unchecked, may transgress a number of rights protected by laws and the Constitution,” De Guia said.

De Guia then said that the CHR will be sending a team to investigate the barangay campaign for possible human rights violations.

“As such, we shall be sending an investigation team to ensure the protection of the rights of all and possibly guide the officials of Brgy. Commonwealth given other allegations of human rights violation in the past,” de Guia said. /kga