The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses deep concern over the planned “shame campaign” of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), which seeks to discipline drivers and motorists by publicly posting or publishing the names and identities of alleged traffic violators as a warning to others.
CHR recognizes the vital importance of road safety. Holding a driver’s license is a privilege that entails a responsibility to exercise caution, discipline, and respect for traffic regulations. Those who endanger the safety of fellow motorists and pedestrians must indeed be held accountable under the law.
While we take note of the DOTr’s decision to subject this proposal to further legal study, the Commission stresses that accountability must never be pursued at the expense of fundamental rights—particularly the right to privacy, due process, and the presumption of innocence. These Constitutional guarantees exist to ensure that human rights are respected and upheld at all times, even on the road.
We urge the DOTr to exercise prudence in releasing personal information that could expose individuals to unnecessary public ridicule and cause disproportionate harm to their reputation relative to the alleged offense. Acts that encourage trial by publicity should not be normalized in a society governed by the rule of law.
The Commission acknowledges ongoing efforts to educate the public and deter violations of traffic regulations. However, we encourage the DOTr and other concerned agencies to explore more sustainable and rights-based traffic management measures, including appropriate penalties that effectively discourage violations without inflicting undue harm. The government remains duty-bound to enforce policies with firmness, while also ensuring that the rights and dignity of all individuals are protected.
As the country’s national human rights institution, CHR expresses its openness to work with the DOTr and relevant stakeholders in crafting traffic policies rooted in human rights-based approaches. Such measures must guarantee that the dignity of all drivers, motorists, and road users is respected, protected, and promoted at all times.
Accountability must always be pursued within the bounds of law and guided by the principles of human rights. In a democracy, discipline and order must never come at the expense of human dignity and fundamental freedoms.###