The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has released its official position paper supporting the swift passage of a strong and independent CHR Charter, as proposed in several pending House Bills [1] [2]. The paper affirms that a legislated Charter is necessary to firmly entrench the Commission’s mandate, independence, and operational foundations in line with international human rights standards. The CHR recognizes the support of the House of Representatives and underscores the urgency of enacting the measure.

The CHR emphasizes that effective human rights protection requires institutions that remain steadfast regardless of political transitions or shifting priorities. A Commission reinforced by a robust legislated charter serves as a guardian of the people, particularly those with the least access to justice.

For nearly four decades, the CHR has operated without a legislated charter, relying solely on the 1987 Philippine Constitution and Executive Order No. 163, s.1987. While these instruments grounded the Commission’s creation, they do not provide the full guarantees required of a modern, effective, and internationally compliant national human rights institution. This gap has been repeatedly raised by the United Nations through mechanisms such as the Universal Periodic Review, UN Treaty Bodies, and the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), all of which have called on the Philippines to enact a CHR Charter consistent with the Paris Principles.

The Commission strongly supports the core pillars reflected across the pending CHR Charter bills, including full fiscal autonomy, operational and policy independence, a broadened mandate covering all human rights, and a transparent, merit-based, and pluralist selection process for the Chairperson and Commissioners. These pillars are essential to ensuring that the CHR can function without political pressure and maintain the credibility expected of an independent national human rights institution.

At the same time, the CHR calls on lawmakers to further strengthen key provisions to ensure full alignment with the Paris Principles and preserve its “Status A” accreditation under GANHRI. Among the most crucial elements emphasized are the automatic and regular release of appropriations, a transparent and pluralist selection process, and the expansion of the CHR’s mandate to include economic, social, and cultural rights alongside civil and political rights.

The proposed Charter likewise strengthens the CHR’s capacity to investigate violations, assist victims, and monitor State compliance with international human rights obligations. It reinforces visitorial powers and enhances legal and preventive measures, enabling swift and independent action, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable groups.

The Commission urges the swift passage of the measure. A strong and independent CHR remains indispensable to strengthening democratic institutions, safeguarding human rights, and upholding the dignity of every Filipino.

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[1] Position Paper on House Bill Nos. 349, 1433, 1798, 3041,3934, 4835, and 4946 on Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights as a National Human Rights Institutions (NHRI) and for Other Purposes: https://bit.ly/3OC5HWJ
[2] House Bills (HB) seeking to establish a dedicated CHR Charter
• HB No. 349, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights as a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) and for Other Purposes,” filed by Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong;
• HB No. 1433, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines as a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) and for Other Purposes,” filed by Rep. Leila M. De Lima;
• HB No. 1798, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights as a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI),” filed by Rep. Rufus B. Rodriguez and Rep. Maximo B. Rodriguez, Jr.;
• HB No. 3041, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution,” filed by Rep. Bienvenido Abante, Jr.;
• HB No. 3934, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution,” filed by Rep. Bella Vanessa B. Suansing;
• HB No. 4835, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution,” filed by Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores; and
• HB No. 4946, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution,” filed by Rep. Lorenz R. Defensor.
• HB No. 5853, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution,” filed by Representatives Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, Andrew Julian K. Romualdez and Jude A. Acidre}
• HB No. 6164, entitled “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution,” filed by Representative Giselle Mary L. Maceda