Several months into the community quarantine, we have seen reports of violations being apprehended by authorities, with others being met with harsh, inhumane punishments.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) sees the value of imposing health guidelines and protocols to ensure that everyone’s health is protected during this pandemic. We believe that asserting individual rights must also take into account the obligation to protect other people’s rights.

However, as we have repeatedly stressed, we must treat the pandemic as a public health crisis which considers the human rights dimensions of the situation, rather than approaching our present circumstances from a peace and order lens.

Such reminder includes government officials and representatives being circumspect in both their words and deeds.

The Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (Republic Act No. 6713) stresses the importance of their commitment to the democratic way of life and values, as well as the duty to uphold the Constitution, which puts premium on social justice and human rights, at all times.

CHR decries statements that devalues human rights and negates the importance of human lives. At this point, when everyone is struggling, we should expect compassion and empathy from the government, especially for the vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalised.

This is not to say that violations must not be punished. But should actions merit punishment, they should be carried out in full accordance with the law. As such, we recognise the reminder of the Department of the Interior and Local Government for equally stressing this important point, especially for our law enforcers on the ground.

Greater efforts to educate and assist communities will also best maximise the community quarantines. Violations may have stemmed from lack of appreciation of policies and understanding of the dangers of the virus. At the same time, government must also continuously respond to the socio-economic challenges of the pandemic, which equally forces individuals to go out despite the hazards of the pandemic as a matter of daily survival.

Like many Filipinos, CHR is one with the nation in supporting efforts that will mitigate the spread and effects of Covid-19. But we cannot put our right to health at the expense of other people’s rights. For, in the end, putting the nation under a state of national health emergency, including several health protocols and quarantines, are meant to to save lives and affirm the value of human dignity. CHR shall continue to investigate alleged violations of human rights during this pandemic, as well as guide the government towards a more humane, compassionate approach in healing as one nation. ###