The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes the government’s expression of confidence in the CHR’s competence to conduct an independent investigation and act accordingly on our findings. In particular, we note the remarks of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana requesting the involvement of the CHR in verifying the report of the US State Department regarding alleged abuses by security forces. He also vowed to ensure the accountability of perpetrators if the report is proven accurate.

CHR is hopeful of the government’s expression of willingness to ascertain truth and justice on alleged human rights breaches, particularly those involving state agents. This has been the Commission’s repeated clamour to bring to competent court all alleged human rights violations, especially grave ones, such as extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture.

We ask that the expression of confidence be matched with the full cooperation of the highest authorities. It is also imperative that this is communicated on the ground to enable independent investigations by the Commission and other investigative and fact-finding bodies. Being the primary duty-bearer, the government must respond by investigating all alleged cases of human rights abuses.

We look forward to enhanced transparency and cooperation on all levels to ensure results in tackling human rights issues. Through this, the government can demonstrate that it is willing and able to investigate and prosecute all alleged cases of abuse to ensure justice for victims and their families and to reassure the public of the credibility and trustworthiness of the security and law enforcement institutions.

As the country’s independent National Human Rights Institution, CHR has consistently endeavoured to monitor the government’s adherence to its human rights obligations while also supporting and recognizing its efforts to advance human rights. The Commission has always expressed willingness and openness to work with the government in resolving alleged cases of extrajudicial killings and other violations. Hence, we welcome the invitation of the government to involve CHR as we have been hoping for it.

For our part, CHR has released the initial report on drug-related extrajudicial killings in November 2021* as well as our findings on the national inquiry on the situation of human rights defenders (HRDs)**. The Commission is also due to come up with a more comprehensive report on drug-related extrajudicial killings. We recognize the recent developments made by the Department of Justice to prosecute a number of alleged abuses as we equally hope for more progress in similar cases.

The Commission looks forward to the security sector’s strengthened resolve and cooperation on all alleged cases of killings and violence involving state forces. To truly curb impunity, consistent efforts and concrete results are crucial in line with upholding the rule of law and the right to life, liberty, and security.

*CHR findings on drug-related extrajudicial killings

**CHR full report on the situation of human rights defenders: https://bit.ly/CHR-HRDs