The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) lauds the Senate of the Philippines for approving on third and final reading several proposed pieces of legislation meant to forward the human rights cause, namely on the protection against human trafficking; additional benefits to health care workers; and rights and welfare of foundlings.
CHR has since recognised the importance of strengthening Philippine laws against human trafficking as reflected in Senate Bill No. 2449 or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking Act of 2021. The changing dimension of this crime introduced by the Internet and other digital platforms makes it imperative that we allow policies curbing human trafficking to equally cope with the times. Making it as an aggravating circumstance in the commission of the crime to lure individuals into human trafficking during crises, such as the pandemic, disasters, humanitarian conflict, and/or any similar emergency situation, further protects the vulnerable from this abusive and degrading practice of treating persons as commodities. As stressed in a previous statement, CHR joins the proponents of Senate Bill No. 2449 in calling for greater action to protect individuals against trafficking, including the increased participation of private businesses in its prevention, and local government units for recovery and reintegration of trafficked persons and their families.
CHR also expresses its recognition to the Senate’s effort to put forward the best interest of the child, particularly of foundlings, with Senate Bill No. 2233 or the proposed Foundling Recognition and Protection Act. A foundling is a deserted or abandoned infant or child whose parents, guardian, or relatives are unknown. With this bill, we acknowledge the human dignity of a foundling by presuming them as a natural-born Filipino if found in the Philippines or in any our the country’s embassies, consulates, and territories; thus granting them the protection and care of the State. The bill allows foundlings to have a fair shot at a good future by making them eligible to government services, including registration, adoption, education, and care among others.
On the topic of care, CHR echoes the call for the need to take care of our caregivers, especially healthcare workers who have been crucial in addressing the pandemic. We express gratitude to the Senate for also approving on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 2421 that seeks to grant benefits and allowances to public and private health workers during the present public health emergency. While there are already allowances authorised by the Bayanihan and other related laws, there is a continuing need to progressively improve the welfare of the healthcare sector. This pandemic highlighted how underserved this sector is and it is an opportune that government responds with care and urgency. At the same time, we also continue with our call that allowances and benefits be released on time and with ease so that our heathcare workers may enjoy the support that is just and rightfully theirs, particularly during this pandemic.
CHR looks forward to the passage of these bills into laws. We urge our lawmakers—from the House of Representatives and Senate alike—to keep in mind the lot of the weak, vulnerable, and marginalised and to continue serving the cause of human rights with their legislative mandate. ###