The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses concern over the recent remarks of the acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr, that the PNP will have ‘no problem’ with rally attendees as long as they chant support for the incoming President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. He further commented against those who criticise, urging them to reflect on the so-called ‘human wrongs’ that they are committing during protests.
While we note his concern in keeping the inauguration orderly, CHR continues to stress the primacy of upholding human rights, as similarly stressed by the President-elect himself during a meeting with the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Philippines on Friday, 10 June 2022.
The freedom of speech, of expression, and the right of the people peaceably to assemble are guaranteed rights under the 1987 Constitution. These rights are meant to be enjoyed by all—regardless of whether they express dissent or support, may it be spoken or in any other form.
At the same time, we remind rallyists—both pro and anti—that rights entail obligations, and that the exercise of one’s rights must never resort to violence or harm.
As a law enforcement agency, we hope that the PNP continues to uphold their mandate of serving the people and protecting human rights of all at all times.
On this note, we recognise the clarification from the PNP acknowledging the right of protesters to assembly in freedom parks should the local government fail to issue permit for protests intended at public thoroughfares, as stated in Batas Pambansa Blg. 880. CHR also reiterates the need to practice maximum tolerance of police officers during protests, including guidelines on peaceful dispersal, if necessary, as stated in the same law.
As fellow duty bearers, CHR reminds our government leaders and authorities that criticism or dissent is part of a vibrant and functioning democracy. CHR, on its part, will continue the work to protect and promote the human rights agenda. We look forward to the collaboration and shared responsibility with our leaders to address the human rights concerns of the Filipino people.