CHR to hold national inquiry on situation of human rights defenders

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Thursday said it will hold a national inquiry on the situation of human rights defenders in the country.

The CHR said the inquiry comes after petitions detailing cases of alleged extra-judicial killings, disappearances, threats, and other forms of harassments against human rights defenders were filed with their office.

“In accordance with its primary mandate to investigate allegations of human rights abuses, the CHR, upon conclusion of its inquiry, intends to present to government and other sectors recommendations for respecting human rights, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring a vibrant democracy,” CHR Commissioner Roberto Eugenio T. Cadiz said in a statement.

The human rights commission said the inquiry hearings will be held from September 9 to 13 at the Session Hall of the CHR Central Office in Quezon City.

Among those expected to attend the hearings are members of local and international human rights organizations, the church, and government, among others.

Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Caloocan City Bishop Pablo David, Rep. Carlos Zarate, the office of Sen. Leila de Lima, representatives from the Philippine National Police and the Department of National Defense have confirmed their participation in the inquiry.

“The CHR hopes that the Department of Justice, the Office of the Solicitor General, and the Presidential Human Rights Committee will participate in the public hearings,” Cadiz said.  /muf