The Commission on Human Rights is alarmed by the recent reports of alleged efforts to impede the right to assembly and free speech.

On Wednesday, May 11, several groups held a protest in front of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Intramuros. Soon after, a memorandum was released stating the strict implementation of Batas Pambansa 880 or the Public Assembly Act – in which individuals or groups who wish to hold rallies or public gatherings must secure a permit form the city government. While the Commission recognizes and defers to local mandates to ensure public safety, we remind state and law enforcement officials that peaceful assembly is a fundamental human right. It is crucial for a flourishing democracy such as ours to listen to and address the grievances of the people.

In the same breath, CHR decries any form of intimidation, harassment, and red-tagging of students and civilians in their exercise of civil liberties, referring specifically to claims that University of the Philippines (UP) student athletes were stopped and interrogated by the Quezon City Police Department (QCPD).

To truly unite in the safeguarding of our peace and order, we must advocate and defend all Filipinos’ rights to freedom of expression.

We trust our incoming leaders, as fellow duty bearers, to respect, promote and fulfill the rights of all, especially the most disenfranchised.