Today, Araw ng Kagitingan, the Commission on Human Rights joins the nation in commemorating the heroism of all Filipinos who stood for our freedom and democracy during the World War II era. While there are heroes whose names we remember in history, it is equally important to revere those who collectively defended the country’s sovereignty. This 5-11 April, also called the Veterans Week, we also honour all the veterans of the Philippine military.

The challenge before us today is to continuously honour their sacrifices by resisting signs of abuse against our liberties and rights. And, like them, public officials have sworn to defend and uphold our rights. It is just but right that we demand the protection against indignities that they have vowed to deliver in the face of rampant human rights violations today.

We may have renounced war as an instrument of national policy in our Constitution, but the battle against many forms of transgressions against human dignity, freedom, and democracy continue. Let us not wait for the time when it is our rights that are on the line. We were able to stand as one for a common, noble goal before. The call is to stand up for our and other’s rights in honour of those who have fought for the liberties we enjoy today, as we call for justice and accountability from those who violated them.