CHR condemns killing of peasant organizer, conducts probe

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Monday condemned the killing of a female peasant leader in Catarman, Northern Samar.

Jennifer Tonag, 35, helped farmers in defending their land rights as an organizer of the Northern Samar Farmers Association (NSFA). She was shot to death last Friday by unidentified gunmen.

“Tonag is just one of the many victims that have faced reprisals due to exposing State-perpetrated human rights violations and demanding for justice and accountability,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement.

“The CHR Regional Office has already dispatched a Quick Response Team to conduct an independent investigation of the case,” she added.

De Guia also reiterated its call on the government to stop all forms of violence against human rights defenders and uphold the Human Rights Defenders Protection Bill, which provides them legal recognition and protection.

“Human rights defenders are people’s partners for peace and inclusive development. They are not the enemy but are watchdogs ensuring that the government is not abusing its power and effectively doing its job,” De Guia noted.

“The CHR calls for justice for the death of Tonag and all the human rights defenders in the country and around the world who sacrificed their lives to create a better future for everyone, especially for the marginalized, vulnerable and disadvantaged segments of our society,” she added.

Edited by KGA

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