The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) strongly condemns the actions of Barangay Chairperson Eric P. Ambrocio who, along with other barangay officials, detained five individuals, including two minors in a dog kennel after arresting them for violating the curfew hours in Barangay Gatid, Sta. Cruz, Laguna on the night of 15 March 2020. Barangay Chairperson Ambrocio has since admitted the acts but asserted that those arrested were intoxicated at the time of incident and even hurled verbal expletives against the barangay officials when they were arrested.
While the CHR is not oblivious of the prevailing public health emergency that sustains the imposition of curfew, not only in Barangay Gatid, but in most barangays across the country, this fact alone does not and cannot excuse anyone from infringing human rights. This is even more so for public officials like Barangay Chairperson Ambrocio who swore to uphold the Philippine Constitution in which the guarantees of fundamental freedoms are enshrined.
Cramping alleged offenders in an improvised cage intended for canines as punishment, whether in part or in whole, for violating an ordinance is definitely cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment. Worse, some of the alleged offenders in this case are minors governed by special laws, including on matters relating to criminal offenses. Lamentably still, the acts complained of obviously exposed them to further risk of contracting COVID-19 as they were forced to compress themselves inside the small compartment.
The CHR reminds local officials to be judicious in their actions when enforcing the law, especially when it comes to the disadvantaged, marginalized and vulnerable sectors of society such as children. As state agents, they bear the duty to protect and promote the human rights of all without discrimination. A state of public health emergency cannot be used as justification for trampling anyone’s human dignity anywhere.
The CHR acknowledges the swift action of Sta. Cruz Mayor Edgar San Luis and his assurance to cooperate with the CHR in the conduct of its independent investigation. The public is assured that CHR Region IV-A will closely monitor the progress of this case and ensure that those who are responsible for this incident will be held accountable.
Issued on this 21st day of March 2020, San Pablo City, Laguna.