The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) proudly commemorates 38 years of resolute service and commitment to the Filipino people on 05 May 2025. Guided by the 6th Commission en banc, CHR continues to build on its achievements, working to safeguard the rights of every Filipino, especially the marginalized and vulnerable sectors.

Since its establishment in 1987, the CHR has been instrumental in promoting and upholding human rights, fostering equal justice, and encouraging transparency among those in power. At the same time, the CHR has remained dedicated to strengthening its workforce, ensuring that employees are equipped with the resources and support necessary to continue delivering exemplary public service.

Layag: Navigating the tides of change for a stronger CHR

This year’s theme, “Layag: Komisyong Nagbubuklod sa Agos ng Pagbabago, Sama-samang Itinataguyod ang Karapatang Pantao,” emphasizes the CHR’s collective and proactive approach to navigating change, expanding its reach, and refining its services.

One of the key highlights of the year was the conclusion of Lakbay Karapatan Tungo sa Kamalayan (LAKARAN), a groundbreaking human rights education campaign that reached all 16 regions nationwide. This initiative culminated in the National Capital Region (NCR) and aimed to deepen public understanding of human rights, particularly in grassroots communities.

In addition, the CHR concluded its Public Inquiry on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), focusing on incidents of red-tagging. The inquiry engaged a wide range of stakeholders, including civil society organizations and key government actors. It underscored critical issues related to due process, accountability, and the need for protection mechanisms for HRDs.

Chairperson Richard P. Palpal-latoc celebrated these milestones and commended CHR staff for their unwavering commitment to human rights. He emphasized the importance of continued efforts to foster transparency, accountability, and education in the face of challenges.

“Ginugunita natin ang bawat effort na patuloy na binubuhos ng ating mga ka-CHR sa gitna ng malalaking pagbabago sa ating human rights landscape sa bansa. Naglalakbay tayo nang sabay-sabay para isapuso ang ating ambisyon tungo sa pagtataguyod ng dignidad ng bawat Pilipino,” Chairperson Palpal-latoc stated.

(We honor every effort continuously poured in by our fellow CHR members amidst the significant changes in the country’s human rights landscape. United, we embrace our ambition to uphold the dignity of every Filipino. We continue to sail toward a future where the protection of human rights for all remains vibrant and alive).

Strengthening systems for greater impact

The CHR also celebrated its significant progress in institutional development. With 80% of its offices now ISO-certified under the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS) standards, the CHR has continued to improve its service delivery. Additionally, the launch of MISMO, an online portal for filing complaints and requests, has made the Commission’s services more accessible and streamlined. This portal form part of the CHR’s broader trajectory towards full digitalization, aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and public access to human rights services.

The CHR also introduced its first-ever training on the Human Rights-Based Approach to Reporting. This initiative aims to empower journalists with the skills and knowledge to report on sensitive issues with fairness, accuracy, and respect for human dignity.

Looking ahead

As the 6th Commission en banc approaches its mid-year, the leadership remains optimistic about the future, with plans for continued progress in human rights advocacy. Commissioner Beda A. Epres encouraged CHR employees to continue their service with integrity and compassion. Commissioner Faydah M. Dumarpa recognized the continued commitment of CHR personnel to the CHR’s Quality Policy—promptness, excellence, responsiveness, and accessibility—while Commissioner Monina Arevalo-Zenarosa described the CHR staff as the “wind” propelling the Commission’s “layag” toward a more compassionate and purposeful service. Meanwhile, Commissioner Maria Amifaith S. Fider-Reyes praised the employees of the CHR for their hard work and dedication. Their quiet work, be it in the backroom, or the frontline services, or even in institutional reforms, will always be appreciated.

As the CHR commemorates this milestone, it reminds everyone that upholding human rights is a shared responsibility that calls upon the commitment and conscience of all. ###