The Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines (CHRP) welcomes the video statement of Philippine Secretary of Justice Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday, 24 February 2021, at the 46th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council and appreciates his updates that the investigation promised last year was partially complied with. We reiterate our previous statements that we value dialogue with the Philippine government as we have consistently attempted to invite them to work with us.

At the very least, the findings of the investigations conducted and the review of the cases of extrajudicial killings (EJKs) in the Administration’s so-called ‘War on Drugs’ are a step in the right direction. We appreciate that the Secretary of Justice declared that they will cooperate with us and committed to include us in the case build up and evidence gathering in order to bridge victims of human rights violations with government. As the National Human Rights Institution of the Philippines, the CHRP plays an important role in moving the findings forward. We emphasize, however, that we remain in anticipation of the full report of the review panel and look forward to be included in its processes. The investigations have to push through, and make sure that perpetrators are held to account. The victims need to be confident that actions will be taken, and we commit ourselves in making this a reality.

With the welcomed declarations of the Secretary of Justice before the Human Rights Council, the Commission, shall work as an impartial institution to ensure that the Philippine Government remains committed and on-track with its pledge and obligation to human rights—such that our internal matters are being addressed more than adequately by our national institutions and agencies in ensuring that human rights violations will be dealt with appropriately. #