CHR calls for a more humane approach to pandemic, disaster response 

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MANILA, Philippines — Amid the Taal Volcano’s unrest, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday emphasized the importance of a human rights-based approach in handling such disasters as well as the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In view of the recent Taal Volcano unrest, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) underscores the importance of upholding a human rights-based approach to disaster and COVID-19 response,” CHR deputy spokesperson Marc Siapno said in a statement.

“Inclusive approach of protecting every individual’s rights to life and health is crucial in curbing the spread of coronavirus among displaced persons, especially in evacuation sites. They are disproportionately vulnerable to health risks, discrimination, and lack of access to basic social services,” he added.

According to Siapno, there should also be “a special consideration for measures covering mental health and psychosocial aspects, protection from sexual exploitation and abuse, and other gender issues among others” aside from the distribution of aid to displaced individuals.

Siapno issued the statement as he took note of CHR’s human rights advisory issued in January 2020, which emphasized the “do no harm” principle and to adhere to the humanitarian standards of protection.

“The CHR recognizes the prompt action of local and national government units in ensuring the health and safety of affected residents in Batangas in anticipation of any further volcanic activity in the area,” Siapno said.

He, meanwhile, underscored the role being played by local organizations and communities in disaster management especially in disseminating factual information to the public.

The CHR also commended the prompt action of local government units in Batangas to ensure its citizens’ health and safety amid the Taal Volcano activity.

The commission further recognized the efforts of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in monitoring the needs and situation of the public and the Department of Public Works and Highways in offering its offices to those who will be in need of assistance in the event of an evacuation.

The CHR then assured the public that it will be monitoring the human rights situation in affected communities in Batangas through its Center for Crisis, Conflict, and Humanitarian Protection. — Sofia Vertucio, INQUIRER.net trainee

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