The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) takes note of the report of the Human Rights Watch (HRW) on the state of human rights in the Philippines, describing a “deepened” human rights crisis in 2018. CHR recognises the independence of HRW in coming up with such assessment.

But, at the same time, HRW raises concerns that we have likewise urged the government to address sincerely and with expediency, including greater transparency and accountability for the deaths allegedly linked to the government’s anti-drug campaign; better protection of our children, in light of proposals, such as lowering the minimum age of criminal liability; upholding gender rights with respect to the concerns of both women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community; and attacks against democratic institutions, including human rights defenders.

We hope that these kinds of reports be taken constructively with the welfare of all Filipinos in mind, especially the vulnerable and marginalised. ###