In a previous statement, we have raised the sharp contrast with how the Philippine National Police (PNP) handles Senator Leila M de Lima during her attendance at court hearings compared to other high profile cases. A simple review of footages of other high profile personalities attending hearings would show this difference.

The Senator has consistently been heavily guarded and covered by police escorts with their extended hands in attempt to hide her from the public and media. In other instances, police officers drown the Senator’s voice with a chorus of cough.

However, to refute our observations, the PNP, through its Human Rights Affairs Office, has detailed the conditions of Senator de Lima while in detention. This clearly and entirely misses the point.

We have called for fairness with respect to how human rights standards are being applied to other persons deprived of liberty compared to Senator de Lima. While conditions may be well in detention, treatment goes beyond the walls of the facility. Incarceration limits specific rights, but does not dissolve them entirely, especially those fundamental to living a dignified life. Not to mention that, pending a fair and competent trial, accused persons are deemed innocent until proven guilty—a Constitutional guarantee that the PNP is equally expected to respect.

Such advices form part of the mandate of the Commission on Human Rights as the country’s National Human Rights Institution, which we especially hope and expect the PNP Human Rights Office would know and appreciate. We have repeatedly sought the partnership of the PNP on a number of human rights issues. And we would be happy to meet with them on this, alongside all other issues pertaining to the protection and promotion of the human rights of all. ###