THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday urged authorities to conduct a thorough review of the arrest of a former human rights leader in Digos City, Davao del Sur.
“CHR reiterates the importance of ensuring due process for all individuals, regardless of their affiliation. A safe and fair environment, where the rule of law prevails, is essential in fostering a society where the human rights of all sectors are respected and protected,” the CHR said in a statement.
Police arrested Jay Apiag, a Karapatan ex-secretary general, on Aug. 13 and detained him at the Buhangin police station for alleged attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
In March 2021, Apiag, along with Karapatan national chairperson Elisa Lubi, was issued an arrest warrant for another attempted murder cases, but the charges were recalled after a petition was filed.
“Prior to his arrest, CHR notes that Apiag has been the target of multiple incidents of red-tagging, leading to a series of harassments,” the CHR noted.
In 2020, Apiag was vilified in Mindanao through posters labelling him as an alleged human rights violator, executioner, and assassin.
