Law enforcers must report to CHR on arresting ‘suspected terrorists’ — Lacson

MANILA, Philippines — Law enforcing officers who will arrest suspected terrorists must report to the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) under the anti-terror bill, Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said Wednesday.

In an online forum by the Management Association of the Philippines, Lacson added that it is the only law where arresting officers need to report to the CHR.

Lacson said that under the proposed measure, the CHR is included in the reportorial requirement, meaning “they will have full access, full visitation privileges or rights dun sa (with the) suspect na na-arrest (that has been arrested) based on the warrantless arrest.”

“Where can you find a law that requires reporting to the CHR? So the CHR can inspect, visit, investigate,” Lacson said, as he answered a question regarding the concern raised by human rights groups that the proposed measure may lead to an increase of extrajudicial killings, and may discourage the public to air sentiments on the country’s pressing issues.

“Ordinary crimes like murder, the police [are] not required to report to the CHR in writing,” he added. “Ito lang yung namumukod tanging batas na ipapasa natin na yung arresting officer should immediately notify, among others, the Commission on Human Rights.”

(This is the only law that we will pass where an arresting officer should immediately notify, among others, the Commission on Human Rights.)

The anti-terror bill, which has Lacson as one of the principal authors in the Senate version, is now up for the signature of President Rodrigo Duterte.

However, this bill has met widespread opposition from various groups pointing out that the measure could lead to more cases of human rights violations.

Even the CHR said that the measure’s vague definition of terrorism could open avenues for abuse, adding that even the bill’s implementing rules and regulations cannot fix the bill’s flaws.

And when asked about his opinion about the Philippines’ current law against terrorism compared to other countries, Lacson said: “We’re very kind, ours is one of the kindest.”

JE