The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses grave concern over the considerable delay in the implementation of the warrant of arrest for the three police officers allegedly involved in the death of Spanish businessman Diego Bello Lafuente (). This delay, despite the accused officers having been informed of the charges against them and the issuance of the warrant of arrest on 25 March 2022, goes beyond the reasonable promptness required in the effective administration of justice.

Unreasonable delays in legal proceedings for failing to implement a warrant of arrest causes a breakdown in the justice system as it prevents providing timely and effective legal redress to the aggrieved. In the same light, a protracted legal proceeding only extends the injustice experienced by alleged perpetrators should they eventually be found innocent.

We strongly urge the Philippine National Police to exert all efforts to locate the accused so that legal proceedings may continue and both the accused and the aggrieved may seek the remedy of the courts in the pursuit of justice.

Speedy and impartial resolution of cases is significant in ensuring the improvement of the country’s justice system in responding to cases involving alleged human rights violation in the campaign against illegal drugs. This remains paramount in a democratic country such as ours and in line with the obligations of the state duty-bound to respect, protect, and fulfil the rights of citizens and individuals within their territory.

Genuine commitment to the pursuit of justice and human rights contribute to a well-governed State. With this, the Philippines can easily foster good relations with other States and continue support for existing preferential trade agreements, economic, and technical aid among others when it demonstrates concrete measures and initiatives that address national and international concerns, including the human rights situation in the Philippines.

For its part, CHR shall continue to monitor this case in line with its independent mandate as a National Human RIghts Institution to protect and promote the human rights and dignity of all persons in the country.