While it is true that reports on the casualties of the government’s anti-drug campaign vary, the reality remains that these are more than mere numbers, but human lives lost, which have left children, wives, and families grieving and demanding for justice.

We take note of the recent statement of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and thank the expression of concern coming from the international community on the human rights situation in the Philippines.

Even before, the Commission on Human Rights have urged the government to ensure full respect for human rights and the rule of law in addressing the ill effects of the sale and use of illegal drugs. We agree with the vision of providing a better life to all Filipinos by curbing the drug problem. However, this goal does not have to come at the expense of our rights.

As part of the Human Rights Council, the Philippine government is expected to uphold the highest standards in the protection and promotion of human rights, including participating in the human rights mechanisms of the UN.

As such, we continue to assert that all lives are sacred. One death is too many. Casualties and collateral damage of this campaign must cease to exist. And we must all be reminded that everyone has a right to life and due process, as guaranteed by the Constitution and other laws that seek to protect human dignity.

We then urge the government to take calls of concern as opportunities to clarify issues and forge stronger partnerships with the community of nations, rather than vilify legitimate concerns and parties, who equally hold protecting rights and respect for human life and dignity as universal and primordial concerns. ###