On Friday, 8 February 2019, the Commission on Human Rights, through Commissioner Karen Gomez-Dumpit, received a number of complaints on the alleged cases of human rights violations perpetrated by government forces against women human rights defenders, including leaders and members of Gabriela and Gabriela Women’s Party. The task now before the Commission is to look into the information submitted for investigation and further action.

Pending their final resolution, we remind the government of the inherent rights of individuals, as clearly outlined in our Bill of Rights. Constitutional guarantees include the right to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures of whatever nature; the right to be informed of any accusation; as well as the right to be granted due process. The Constitution also protects the right of the people to form associations. And for as long as their actions does not run contrary to our laws, then their collective rights must also be upheld. In the end, the government is duty bound to protect the rights of all Filipinos in service of human rights and dignity. ###