CHR vows to continue probe on attacks vs journalists

INQUIRER.net file photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Saturday vowed that it would continue its investigation on threats against journalists in the Philippines.

“The CHR will continue to investigate attacks against the press, collaborate with and support media organizations in their call for national efforts to ensure safety and protection of journalists,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said in a statement for the 10th anniversary of the Maguindanao massacre.

“And to exhaust international mechanisms to elevate the prosecution of media-related attacks,” De Guia added.

The CHR also denounced the seeming delayed justice for the victims of the Maguindanao massacre, saying this could be due to the justice system’s failure.

“The Commission on Human Rights denounces the longstanding impunity surrounding the Maguindanao massacre. Ten years without punishment for any of the perpetrators clearly indicates the failure of our justice system to deliver and function effectively,” de Guia said.

The CHR noted that it deployed investigation team to investigate and give forensics support on the victims of the so-called single deadliest attack against the media.

The Commission also provided financial assistance to families of the victims to aid them in pursuing the case.

The CHR said the attack is a “resounding evidence of how the State fails to safeguard the right to life, the right to freedom of expression, and the right to information of its people.”

Edited by JPV