The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has taken cognisance of the case involving the alleged abduction of two activists in Tabaco City, Albay. The CHR Region 5 has already launched a Quick Response Operation (QRO) to investigate the matter.

Based on reports, James Jasminez, 63, was allegedly taken by a group of men and forced into a white van on the night of 23 August 2024. Meanwhile, on 28 August 2024, 5 days after the incident, Jasminez’ friend, Felix Salaveria Jr., 66, was also allegedly abducted by men in plain clothes and forced into a silver van while on his way home after buying food. The incident was witnessed by Salaveria’s neighbour and recorded on the barangay’s CCTV.

The Commission deplores these enforced disappearances, as they gravely violate the fundamental rights of individuals, particularly the right to life, liberty, and security.

We emphasise the urgent need for stricter enforcement of Republic Act No. 10353, or the Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act, to address these incidents effectively. Bolstering the implementation of this law will help ensure that policy-level solutions are fully utilised to address the issue. In addition to the search for victims, it is imperative to identify and prosecute those responsible, holding them accountable under the rule of law.

The CHR calls for an exhaustive and immediate search for Jasminez and Salaveria, along with other victims of enforced disappearances in the country. This requires the full cooperation of all relevant authorities and law enforcement bodies to act swiftly in addressing this alarming situation.

The Commission, as the country’s national human rights institution, remains steadfast in its Constitutional mandate to call for collective and decisive actions to resolve all cases of enforced disappearances. The protection of human rights and the pursuit of justice must be prioritised to ensure accountability and to put an end to the culture of impunity. ###