The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) acknowledges the urgent appeal made by United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, urging the Philippine government to review the cases of journalists facing legal charges and address the alarming incidents of media killings in the country. As the country’s independent national human rights institution, CHR underscores the importance of swift and impartial processes to secure justice for media workers subjected to alleged fabricated charges and arbitrary detention.
The call by the UN Special Rapporteur highlights the prolonged detention of community journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio, who was arrested on 7 February 2020 in Tacloban City on allegations of illegal possession of firearms and explosives and financing terrorism. To date, these allegations remain unproven in court, leaving Cumpio and her co-detainees, Marielle Domequil and Alexander Abingunia, in a state of uncertainty and deprivation of liberty.
UN Special Rapporteur Khan’s visit to the Philippines earlier this year brought attention to pressing issues related to freedom of opinion and expression. During her engagements, she consulted with various stakeholders, including the CHR, relevant government agencies, civil society organizations, and private entities, as facilitated by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Her findings highlight the necessity of addressing practices such as red-tagging to ensure the protection of media workers ad human rights defenders and the upholding of justice and due process.
While the Commission recognizes the current administration’s steps to promote freedom of expression and defend the rights of the press, we emphasize our call to duty-bearers to ensure that Cumpio, along with all journalists and human rights defenders in similar circumstances, receive a timely and fair trial. We believe that giving due attention to the case of Cumpio not only helps restore faith in the rule of law but also provides an opportunity to strengthen the Philippines’ commitment to its human rights obligations.
As part of our mandate to protect and promote the rights of every Filipino, the Commission assures Cumpio’s family and friends that we have taken cognizance of her case and are actively monitoring her situation.
The CHR remains steadfast in its role as a monitor and advocate, ensuring that justice is served for Cumpio and others in similar circumstances. Resolving these cases promptly sends a clear message that the Philippines is committed to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the rights of media practitioners and human rights defenders.
Journalists face immense risks and challenges in their pursuit of truth, often jeopardizing their safety to uphold the public’s right to information. As duty-bearers, we must recognize their critical role in preserving democracy and ensure their protection against threats and violence.
The CHR echoes the UN Special Rapporteur’s call for proactive measures to protect journalists and uphold their rights. Defending the Fourth Estate is not just a responsibility but a vital step toward safeguarding democracy and ensuring accountability in governance. ###