The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses its utmost gratitude for the filing of House Bill (HB) Nos. 09994 and 10212 which strives to further empower and solidify the Commission’s mandate as the country’s independent national human rights institution, thereby allowing for a more bolstered approach towards the promotion and protection of the rights of every Filipino.

HB No. 09994, authored by Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong, and HB No. 10212, authored by Reps. Ralph Wendel Tulfo, Jocelyn Tulfo, and Erwin Tulfo, envision to broaden the CHR’s role by specifying provisions which allow full adherence to the Paris Principles and look into addressing the gaps which hinder the Commission from fully executing its mandate.

These bills seek to strengthen CHR by enhancing its structural, operational, and functional independence. It ensures full fiscal autonomy for CHR, enabling it to fulfill its mandate without political or external pressures. This would grant the Commission authority to act on human rights violations, issue injunctive reliefs, and implement legal measures. If passed into a law, these bills reflect the Philippine government’s commitment to advancing human rights by enacting policies and legislation grounded in justice, dignity, and equality.

It must be noted that the CHR Charter Bill has also been previously filed in both chambers of the Congress. As such, we extend our appreciation to the following legislators:

• Sen. Robinhood Padilla, for filing Senate Bill (SB) No. 2440;
• Sen. Manuel “Lito” Lapid, for filing SB No. 2487;
• Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, for filing HB 8932;
• Representatives Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Manuel Josh “Mannix” M. Dalipe, Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos, Bienvenido M. Abante, JR., Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, and Jude A. Acidre, for filing HB No. 9790.

We note the efforts made by our legislators for their initiatives to solidify CHR’s mandate in promoting human rights. The Commission believes that an enabling Charter will clearly define its role as a government watchdog and advocate, solidifying its vision for a just and equitable nation that upholds the rights of all, especially the marginalized and vulnerable.

The Commission seeks the collaboration and support of both the Senate and the House to expedite the passage of HB 09994 and HB 10212, along with other proposed bills including SB 2440, SB 2487, HB 08932, and HB 09790. Together, we can protect human rights and ensure that the Commission’s role in promoting justice and equality is fully realized.###