The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) strongly condemns the deplorable act of police corporal Louie Jay Lumancas, who allegedly mauled and aimed a gun at his girlfriend’s nape in Kidapawan City, as seen in a video circulating on social media. The incident involving the victim, Shaira Basmayor Kahar, is a clear violation of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

Violence against women, as a form of gender-based discrimination, must be eradicated through all means possible. CEDAW mandates States to take measures to prevent and protect women from all forms of violence, and to ensure that those responsible for such violence are brought to justice.

As such, CHR commends the immediate arrest of the suspect by the Kidapawan City Police Office. The Commission also notes that police officials have ordered the filing of criminal and administrative cases against Lumancas. We urge the authorities to ensure that the perpetrator is held fully accountable in line with the rule of law.

As Gender Ombud, the Commission stands in solidarity with women calling for the strict enforcement of Republic Act 9262 or the Violence Against Women and Children’s Act. We equally support the calls for more measures that would protect women and children from all forms of violence and promote gender equality.

It is unacceptable that women continue to be subjected to violence and abuse, especially by those who are supposed to uphold and protect the law. CHR reiterates its commitment to upholding and promoting human rights and calls on all stakeholders to work together to create a society where everyone can live free from violence and fear. We stand with Kahar and all victims of gender-based violence and call for justice, redress, and the full protection of their rights. ###