CA turns down human rights group’s bid to present evidence vs military

MANILA, Philippines — The Court of Appeals has denied the bid of a human rights group to present evidence to prove their claims that the Duterte administration, particularly the military, has been harassing, threatening, and “red tagging” their members.

On Tuesday’s hearing, the Appeals Court’s 14th division maintained that the writ of amparo and habeas data proceedings are summary in nature.

“What is important is that the parties have been given a day in court,” Court of Appeals Associate Justice Mario Lopez said.

Writ of Amparo is a remedy available to any person whose right to life, liberty and security has been violated or under threat while the writ of habeas data is a remedy available to any person whose right to privacy in life, liberty or security has been violated or under threat by the unlawful gathering of information about the person, his or her family and home.

Both writs serve as preventive and curative roles to curb extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances.

The CA justices asked the petitioners to submit the legal affidavits for witnesses, but they weren’t able to produce the documents.

“How can you expect this court to give you what you prayed for if you are not prepared today,” the justices said.

They took time to discuss the matter and eventually said that the petitioners’ bid to submit their witnesses will be denied.

The appeals court then proceeded to hear the case based on the records they have at hand. (Editor: Eden Estopace)

RELATED STORY:
SC orders probe on ‘red tagging’ allegations vs gov’t