The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has launched its independent motu proprio investigations on the deaths of barangay councilor Aldrin Ativa Santos in Sta. Maria, Bulacan and college student Leanne Duguesing who was stabbed to death in a dormitory in Dasmariñas City, Cavite. According to local police authorities, the councilor’s lone gunman remains unidentified, while Dasmarinas City cops have apprehended the suspect behind Duguesing’s death on 01 April 2023.
As the country’s national human rights institution, CHR strongly condemns the increasing prevalence of violence in our communities. We stress that violence, in any form, undermines human dignity, erodes social stability, and violates individuals’ fundamental human rights. It is particularly troubling that certain groups, such as women, children, minorities, and even government officials, have recently been the most targeted.
CHR underscores that these incidents should not be taken lightly. The State, as primary duty bearers, must prioritise the protection of all Filipinos through impartial law enforcement and justice systems that ensure full accountability against perpetrators. We call on community and national leaders, policymakers, and officials to take concrete steps to prevent and address these acts of violence in our communities.
Likewise, we urge civil society organizations and citizens to remain vigilant and report incidents of violence and abuse. By exercising our fundamental rights to speech and participation, we support the calls for justice and redress for the affected as well as stand up against these heinous acts.
The Commission reminds all that it is our collective responsibility to work towards creating a culture of peace and respect for human rights. But it is only by addressing the root causes of violence from complex social, economic, and political factors that we can genuinely create a safer and more just society, where all Filipinos can enjoy their human rights and live in dignity.###
To report alleged cases of human rights violation, contact:
CHR Public Assistance and Complaints Desk
✉️ publicassistance@chr.gov.ph
? (02) 8294-8704
?0920 506 1194 (Smart)
?0936 068 0982 (Globe)