THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes the recent development on Senate Bill (SB) 941, also known as the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines Act. This legislation, which began as a proposed bill in the House and was then transmitted to the Senate, is now being discussed as a means for the Philippines to improve its approach to public health issues.

SB 941, filed by Sen. Win Gatchalian, focuses on establishing a body of research in the country which will search as the foundation of the research and development of diagnostic kits, vaccines, and therapeutics as a response to the emergence of various virus strains and diseases. The Commission takes note of the similar bills filed by Senators Raffy Tulfo and Cynthia Villar, namely SB 1818 and 1928.

Additionally, CHR recognizes the efforts of Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, head of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, for recognizing the bill’s potential to “streamline research efforts and expertise towards viruses.” After all, the Philippine government needs to prioritize efforts addressing the growing demand for improved health policies, especially in light of the country’s experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic.

If passed into law, this measure will benefit every Filipino by advancing public health and economic development. It is important to note that although this initiative mainly aims to advance health research for the well-being of Filipinos, the proposed virology research also addresses related matters on plants and animals, which will help mitigate significant losses in the country’s agriculture and livestock industries on the onslaught of various outbreaks.

CHR applauds this proposed bill as it seeks to provide concrete measures to improve the country’s response to public health issues, further promoting the Filipino’s right to health. As such, we also believe that this will positively impact the country’s overall approach towards improving a more feasible environment for farmers, fisherfolk, and those in the livestock industries, thereby safeguarding their livelihoods. On a broader scale, we hope this will lead to a more accessible and affordable food supply across the country.

In upholding the Filipinos’ rights, it is essential that we also place our attention towards the promotion and protection of every Filipino’s right to health, livelihood, and access to healthy food. We look forward to the potential of science and technology in driving progress for the advancement of human rights in the country. (CHR)

Judge Ligaya Itliong-Rivera of RTC Branch 5 in Baguio City found 3rd Class Shalimar Imperial Jr and Felix Lumbag Jr. guilty of murder, while former Cadet 3rd Class Julius Carlo Tadena was convicted for violating the anti-hazing law. All three have been sentenced to reclusion perpetua.

The Commission welcomes this ruling as it demonstrates the State’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that the rule of law remains the cornerstone of achieving accountability and justice in the country.

In line with this, the Commission reaffirms its stance of zero tolerance for hazing and advocates for its complete eradication in all educational institutions and non-school-based organizations, including military and army training programs. We strongly condemn this abhorrent practice, which violates the most fundamental human right—the right to life itself, especially among the youth.

It is imperative that we put an end to the culture of violence, particularly within the ranks of our future military leaders. The use of physical, mental, and psychological violence in training must be categorically rejected, and we must work together to ensure that such practices are never again allowed to take root. (CHR)

For 2024, only P70 is allocated per PDL for daily meals, while the budget for medicine is capped at P15 per person. These amounts have remained unchanged since 2022, despite the ongoing economic challenges. The BJMP has proposed increasing these amounts to P100 and P30 per PDL, respectively.

The CHR respectfully urges our legislators to consider BJMP’s appeal. After all, the Commission believes we share the same goal: to ensure humane conditions and adequate resources for the reformation of our PDLs, as well as to treat them with dignity and respect.

Articles 7 and 10 (Part III) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) clearly state that persons deprived of liberty should be treated with humanity and with respect for the dignity of an individual. Article 10 also mandates that correctional systems should be designed to rehabilitate and assist with the social reintegration of inmates.

As a State Party to the ICCPR, the Commission emphasizes that the State must adhere to these international standards and fully respect the rights of all individuals, including PDLs. This responsibility entails providing sufficient funds for their basic food and medical needs.

The CHR remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of PDLs, believing that a humane approach to incarceration is crucial to genuine rehabilitation and social reintegration.

The Commission also urges the government and all relevant stakeholders to heed this call for increased support to ensure that PDLs are treated in a manner consistent with their inherent human dignity. (CHR)

“We applaud Senator Tulfo’s initiative, as it will undoubtedly boost the morale of our nurses. It’s high time we prioritize our frontline service workers, particularly those in the health sector, who are among the essential pillars of our nation,” stated CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc.

Currently, nurses employed in government hospitals earn at least 36,000 pesos monthly, the lowest wage among Southeast Asian countries according to news reports. This situation drives our local nurses to leave the country for better-paying jobs and opportunities abroad.

Reports from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development titled “Health at a Glance: Asia/Pacific 2022: Measuring Progress Towards Universal Health Coverage” indicate that the Philippines is the largest exporter of nurses and doctors, resulting in a shortage of domestic health professionals. The data also reveals that there are only four nurses per 1,000 patients.

Upholding the principles of the 1987 Constitution, the CHR emphasizes the state’s responsibility to protect labor rights and promote equal employment opportunities. Therefore, the Commission recognizes the necessity of implementing policies that will provide Filipino nurses with economic opportunities and fair treatment they rightfully deserve.

Article 7 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of the United Nations sets standards for favorable working conditions, including fair wages, equal pay for equal work or services rendered, rest, leisure, reasonable working hours, and remuneration for public holidays. Given the current status quo, the CHR calls on the government to address the nursing shortage in our country and comply with the rights set by the United Nations.

“The Commission welcomes any initiatives that will finally address the longstanding call of Filipino nurses for increased pay. The salary raise is just a small gesture to recognize these modern heroes who answer the call of duty when the country needs them most,” Palpal-latoc said. CHR

“This initiative reflects the Commission’s collective efforts to improve the quality of life for our elderly and persons with disabilities. This also demonstrates our shared commitment to inclusivity and welfare for all,” Commissioner Epres said.

According to news reports, House Speaker Martin Romualdez stated that he secured the commitment of relevant authorities to grant the aforementioned discount during a meeting with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) officials. This would result in a monthly increase to P500 from the current P260 discount on groceries and premium items enjoyed by the elderly and persons with disabilities.

Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) states that everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of themselves and their families, including food, clothing, housing, medical care, and necessary social services.

Furthermore, Article 11.1 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) states that “the State Parties to the present Covenant recognize the right of everyone to an adequate standard of living for [him]self and [his] self, including adequate food, clothing and housing, and to the continuous improvement of living conditions.”

Republic Act (RA) No. 9994, or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, and RA 10754, or an Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of Persons with Disabilities, demonstrate that supporting senior citizens and persons with disabilities is a fundamental State responsibility. Therefore, the State is obligated to provide full support for the improvement of seniors and persons with disabilities’ overall well-being and integration into society. 

Given the rising cost of living, particularly in essential areas such as food, healthcare, housing, and transportation, the CHR believes that increased discounts will relieve financial burdens and contribute to ensuring a decent standard of living for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

In line with this, we recognize the efforts of our legislators, particularly Speaker Romualdez and other relevant stakeholders, to establish a policy that will address the needs of our elders and persons with disabilities. This represents a tangible step toward creating a more compassionate and equitable community for all.

The Commission remains committed to achieving its mandate of upholding a society in which everyone, regardless of age or disability, can live with respect, dignity, and equal opportunities. CHR

Based on initial news reports, two unidentified assailants boarding a motorcycle got close to the lawyer’s vehicle and opened fire at least eight times on Thursday, September 14, 2023. She was parked in front of their house along Santiago Street, Zone 2 in Bangued, Abra when the shooting happened. The lawyer was brought to the hospital after the incident but also died later that day. 

Gonzales-Alzate was a former president of the Abra chapter of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), a public interest lawyer, and IBP Commissioner of Bar Discipline since 2015. 

CHR strongly condemns the killing of another lawyer and joins the call for law enforcement agencies to urgently pursue the perpetrators of this violence so they may be brought to justice. 

Amid calls to address impunity, threats and attacks against the members of the legal profession directly affront the rule of law. CHR has since stressed their important role: courts, lawyers, and judges are crucial in administering justice, as well as in uncovering the truth, especially for gross human rights violations.

It is in the best interest of the government to protect lawyers so they may do their duty of ensuring justice without fear of threats and retaliation, especially for those who continue to stand up for the rights and interests of the weak, vulnerable, and marginalized members of the society. 

By virtue of Proclamation No. 713, s. 2004, every September has been declared as Rule of Law Month. May this declaration stand as a reminder of the value of demonstrating equal protection under our laws, including ensuring that crimes and violations of rights simply do not go scot-free because even lawyers are under attack. CHR

“In navigating this world, remember you’re unique… Everything about you, hinandmade ng Panginoon ‘yan. May ipapagawa sa’yo,” Cayetano told hundreds of college graduates of the Southville International School and Colleges in his speech during their commencement exercises on August 8, 2023.

The commencement exercise was also attended by Former Senator Francis Pangilinan and SISC’s Chairman of the Board Dr. Peter P. Laurel.

The senator, whose leadership is based on Christian faith and values, urged the graduates to listen to what their “heart and mind” are saying and not to be swayed by negative opinions.

“Don’t let anyone step on your dreams and tell you na yung special purpose mo wala doon,” he told them. “We are fractions in one whole. Iba-iba ang talent natin. Just like an orchestra, iba-iba ang talent natin.”

Cayetano also said education is important in fulfilling their unique purpose because it is where they get trained, acquire new skills, and hone their talents.

He urged them to get their parents’ and religious leaders’ support for their passion, even though they may sometimes find themselves disagreeing with them. He said their elders only desire to “preserve” them and protect them from the harsh realities of the world.

He challenged the graduates to continue learning and to “personally discover” how “seeking God’s Kingdom and righteousness” leads to the fulfillment of their personal goals in life.

Cayetano also expressed hope in the next generation, saying they hold the future of the country in their hands. “We, the senators, are excited to see what the future holds for you,” he said. 

In Antipolo City, the dismembered body parts of a woman who was reported missing were found under a bridge in Barangay dela Paz and in Barangay San Jose on 9 June 2023. The victim’s partner confessed to the crime after a few days. 

In Aklan, a 19-year-old woman with multiple stab wounds was found dead in a creek in Barangay Torralba in the town of Banga on 14 June 2023. On the same day, the naked and bloodied body of a woman was found in a canal in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. 

In Caloocan City, a 21-year-old woman was found buried in a vacant lot in Barangay 171, North Caloocan on 16 June 2023. The suspect is the boyfriend of the victim. In her testimony, the suspect’s sister disclosed that her brother strangled the victim out of jealousy.

As CHR conducts its parallel and independent probe on all the cases above, we call for the prosecution of these cases to ensure justice for the victims and their families. These grave violations remind us of the continuing vulnerability of women and the prevalence of gender-based violence against them in the hands of intimate partners and strangers alike. 

There is a need to strengthen the teeth of laws that aim to protect women. We reiterate the need for the strong implementation of the Anti-Violence Against Women and Anti-Rape Act to demonstrate that all cases of violence against women are swiftly acted upon and to deter similar offenses. 

As a party to the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, it is also expedient that the government continues to take proactive efforts to raise awareness and amplify campaigns that seek to prevent all forms of discrimination and violence against women. 

The active involvement and vigilance of all sectors of society is also enjoined to truly cultivate a culture of respect and create a safe space for all women. CHR

The Philippines has yet to ratify Convention 190 (C190) or the convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work since it was adopted by the International Labor Organization (ILO) in June 2019.

The said Convention should be ratified for its revolutionary provisions that obligate the government, as primary duty bearers, to prevent, address, and eradicate work-related violence and harassment in the “world of work.” This means that situations associated with or arising out of work are also included in the scope of protection of C190. For instance, violations involving co-workers or superiors that may have happened in digital or public spaces can also be held accountable.

C190 not only upholds workers’ labor rights, it likewise promotes social justice and gender equality. When women workers feel valued, they are more likely to be motivated to perform their duties to the best of their abilities. On a macroeconomic level, it creates an enabling environment conducive to higher worker productivity, increased job satisfaction, and better employee well-being. 

We are calling for the mainstreaming of gender lens across the government’s programs, services, and domestic measures. In line with our mandate to forward recommendations to Congress for human rights-centered policy developments, we urge leaders and policymakers to also take notable steps to empower women workers parallel to the ratification of C190.

Let us help resolve the compounding problems faced by the most marginalized to realize a truly humane and just society where all are equal in dignity and rights. (CHR)

CHR thus supports the passage, through a unanimous vote, of House Bill (HB) No. 454 or the Media Workers’ Welfare Act on its final reading at the House of Representatives on 21 November 2022. HB 454 seeks to provide regularization to media employees after six cumulative months of employment with adequate compensation. These include basic social security and welfare benefits as mandated by law, disability benefits, medical insurance, and death benefit for the family in case a media worker dies in the line of duty.

The Commission underlines that these provisions are in accordance with Article XIII, Section 3 of the 1987 Constitution which guarantees workers’ rights to “security of tenure, humane conditions of work, and a living wage.” Enhancing media workers’ welfare is a step toward strengthening the Fourth Pillar of our democracy.

CHR also acknowledges the bills’ measure on the responsibility of media entities in terms of possible gross negligence or malicious acts of block timers and media workers. We hope that this bolsters the culture of due diligence and truth-telling amid threats of disinformation.

At the same time, we echo the United Nations Human Rights Committee’s concluding recommendation to the Philippine government to “refrain from prosecuting and imprisoning journalists, media workers, and other civil society actors [through the use of criminal and civil legal actions] as a means of deterring or discouraging them from freely expressing their opinions[1].”

The Commission similarly looks forward to the proposed creation of a News Media Tripartite Council under the bill, which will serve as a platform for dialogue between media workers and their employers. Such will be an exercise of freedom of expression wherein parties can have the opportunity to discuss issues on labor concerns as well as the development of the media industry.

As we commend the immediate passage of HB 454, CHR equally calls for the enactment of support for community media and publications that may lack funding to implement the bill’s provisions. We ask that their position also be taken into consideration during the bicameral conference of the lower and upper Congress chambers.

Finally, CHR hopes that HB 454 may signal more advances for the state of press freedom, democracy, and human rights in the country. We look forward to a more open and consultative climate between the government and journalists in the country to better explore and appropriate responsive solutions to challenges faced in practice and on the ground. (Statement of the Commission on Human Rights welcoming the passage on third reading of House Bill No. 454 or the media workers’ security of tenure bill)