We at the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) acknowledge the difficulties of combatting a pandemic that continues to affect, not only the Philippines, but also other nations around the world.

At the same time, we note that, when the government placed the entire country under a state of national emergency, the President made it clear that it is not the same as martial law. With it also came the understanding that the declaration was a public health measure—centered on upholding the people’s right to health and as a means to save lives by reducing transmission of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) among Filipinos.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) supported this principle with Memorandum Circular N0. 2020-062 and further directed local government units to ensure that there will be no human rights violations in communities as we combat COVID-19.

As such, it concerns us when there are statements that calls for the suspension of human rights in the context of a national emergency. There may be acceptable restrictions—the freedom of movement, for example, can be limited in support of social distancing to flatten the curve of infection. But restrictions must also follow human rights standards, such that they should be lawful, necessary, proportionate, and should not be used to target specific groups, minorities, or individuals.

CHR reiterates its call to place human rights at the center of government efforts in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, in implementing policies and actions in support of the enhanced community quarantine, government officials must always be conscious of not violating any rights. The protection of our human rights is very reason why we fight against COVID-19.

At this point, we also remind the government to look out for the welfare of the most vulnerable and marginalised, including the elderly, the homeless, persons with disabilities, and the poorest of the poor. There should also be appropriate reinforcements for our frontliners, who equally need all the support from government for them to carry our their duties, as well as to protect themselves from getting infected. No one should be left behind.

We then urge the public to support measures that would help us address this pandemic, but always mindful of your rights and vigilant against possible abuses. ###