CHR now probing abduction of ex-political prisoner’s sibling in Batangas

This photo, taken on June 8, 2021, shows the facade of the Commission on Human Rights office in Quezon City. INQUIRER / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is now investigating the abduction of a former political prisoner’s sibling in Batangas City, with the commission saying that they are“deeply concerned” over the incident.

In a statement, CHR said that they are aware of the footage taken through a closed circuit television camera, which showed Jose Marie Estiller, brother of activist and former political prisoner Jean Estiller, being taken by five men in plain clothes.

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CHR said that its Calabarzon office has started the probe.

“[CHR] expresses its deep concern over the alleged abduction of Jose Marie Estiller in Batangas City on 20 February 2024. The CHR Region IV-A has launched a Quick Response Operation (QRO) to conduct a motu proprio investigation to look into the incident,” CHR said in a statement on Wednesday.

“Based on the available CCTV footage, Estiller was walking in broad daylight when five armed and unidentified men grabbed his shirt and dragged him against his will. This alarming incident raises serious concerns about the safety and security of not just certain individuals but the entire community,” it added.

While more details on the abduction are not yet available, CHR reminded law enforcement agencies that arbitrary arrests and detentions are illegal and may be punishable under Republic Act No. 10353 or the Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act of 2012.

“While other details of the incident remain undetermined and an investigation is currently underway, the Commission remains steadfast in denouncing any act of violence committed against any individual, reaffirming its mandate to uphold and protect the rights of all. The protection of human rights and the rule of law are fundamental principles that must be upheld at all times,” CHR said.

“CHR emphasizes that the Philippine Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantee the right to life, liberty, and security for all. Furthermore, any arbitrary, unlawful deprivation of liberty, such as illegal arrest, detention, or abduction, is punishable by law under Republic Act (RA) No. 10353, also known as the Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act of 2012,” it added.

Rights group Karapatan has already condemned the incident, as well as the report of the Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), which stated that Estiller had “voluntarily surrendered” last February 23.

Karapatan called on CHR to further probe Estiller’s abduction and alleged voluntary surrender, saying that he must be transferred to a regular detention facility while cases against him are being heard.

“It is mind-boggling how the PNP-CIDG expects the public to believe its claim of “voluntary surrender” by a person who has been in police custody for three days,” the group said. — With reports from Barbara Gutierrez, INQUIRER.net intern