The Commission on Human Rights notes the recent plans of the Philippine National Police to revive the concept of ‘Alsa Masa’ in addressing the drug problem at the grassroots level. While at its centre is tapping the spirit of volunteerism, the Commission urges the government to ensure adherence to strict guidelines in its implementation that would prevent violations of human rights, including respect for due process and the rule of law.

The government must assure the country that this would not follow the history of the ‘Alsa Masa’ in 1980s known for its abuses, especially that the government has yet to resolve allegations of human rights violations allegedly linked to the current government drug campaign.