The Commission on Human Rights expresses alarm over plans of government to create a death squad meant to target suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA). This move is not within the law and such actions will lead to violations of human rights, including the right to life and due process. The Constitution also guarantees that no person shall be denied equal protection of the laws. As such, we expect the government to uphold its obligations to protect these rights, including making perpetrators of crimes accountable before our courts––may they be members of NPA or not. In the end, we expect the government to uphold and protect human rights and not be at the forefront of committing violations.

Let the security forces, particularly the military and police, perform their roles within the rule of law.