The Commission on Human Rights took part in the celebration of the National Privacy Awareness Week with the National Privacy Commission.

Anchored on this year’s theme “Data Privacy for All: Embracing Inclusivity and Diversity,” CHR Commissioner Faydah Maniri Dumarpa took part in a panel discussion which explored opportunities and strategies to enable access to the Internet and digital technology across the country. This centered on ensuring that geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, underserved communities, and other vulnerable groups belong in the nationwide progress on digital transformation.

“As we move forward with developing the governance mechanisms that will respond to the changes brought about by rapid advancements in technology, we should utilize a human rights-based approach in our framework of analysis as well as subsequent frame our policy responses. Only by that route, can we ensure that no one will be truly left behind,” according to Commissioner Dumarpa, focal for Emerging Technologies in Human Rights.

It must be remembered that pursuant to Proclamation No. 527, s. 2018, every last week of May is commemorated as the Privacy Awareness Week in the country. We affirm every endeavor that the Philippine government extends to ensure that every Filipino’s Internet reach is guaranteed, especially in the digital age where one’s network accessibility is a right, beyond being a privilege.

Commissioner Dumarpa’s discussion focused on the various efforts that the CHR has undertaken in order to identify key issues that drive the convergence of technology and human rights. Such include data privacy, cybersecurity threats and privacy concerns, the spread of artificial intelligence tools in the mainstream web, as well as digital accessibility and how it affects the employability of Filipinos.

“The obligation now falls into our hands as duty-bearers: we have to ensure that we are able to provide access to upskilling opportunities to all Filipinos. This will be the only way that we will be able to guarantee that we are well-equipped in the midst of all the technology advancements that we face on a daily basis,” Commissioner Dumarpa said.

The CHR, as the country’s independent watchdog institution for human rights, continues to advocate for the incorporation of human rights components as the Philippine government remains committed to its obligation to protect, promote, and fulfill every Filipino’s right to Internet connectivity.

Now more than ever, we reiterate our call for all stakeholders to embrace the shared responsibility of ensuring that the rights to freedom of expression and data privacy of the people are safeguarded, alongside providing equal opportunities to access these technologies. After all, a more inclusive Philippines is one that recognizes the coexistence of innovation and human dignity in a digital world.###