CHR: ICC probe perfectly timed for PH gov’t to uphold human rights obligations

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MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday said that the ICC’s recent decision to resume its drug war investigation was an ideal opportunity for the Philippine government to reaffirm its commitment to human rights duties.

The ICC noted that the Philippines was not making enough progress in its investigations to justify a delay in the court’s probes.

READ: ICC resumes probe on PH’s drug war 

“The ICC investigation is an opportune occasion for the present government to take the right track in upholding its human rights obligations, especially for those wronged and violated,” said the CHR in a statement.

The CHR has observed the latest ruling that permits ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan KC to investigate further the death-filled war on drugs instigated by former president Rodrigo Duterte, which has seen numerous fatalities.

READ: Total drug war deaths at 6,248 as of April 30 — PDEA 

“CHR urges the Government of the Philippines to view the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber decision as an opportunity to fulfill President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s earlier commitment in ensuring a ‘high-level of accountability’ for human issues and violations during his term,” said the commission.

READ: Bongbong Marcos commits to human rights accountability, says UN envoy 

The commission said the probe was a chance to “demonstrate openness and transparency.”

“As the independent national human rights institution of the Philippines, CHR extends its openness and willingness to assist the present administration in upholding the rights and dignity of all,” said the CHR.

The CHR has also reiterated its previous report on Duterte’s anti-drug war, which found human-rights violations, especially among the marginalized.

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JPV/abc