The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday supported a recommendation by the House Quad Committee to file crimes against humanity charges on those allegedly involved in extrajudicial killings under the Duterte administration.
Throughout the 13 Quad Comm hearings, the CHR said it has consistently monitored the testimonies, affidavits and sworn statements of all resource persons to ensure that human rights violations are actively addressed by the State and that perpetrators are held accountable.
“The CHR recognizes the tireless work carried out by the Quad Comm in ascertaining facts through a public inquiry in aid of legislation,” the Commission said in a statement.
“The Commission also takes note of their Quad Comm’s move to pass a law to classify extrajudicial killing as a heinous crime and holds accountable those who contribute to a culture of impunity where perpetrators act without fear of legal consequences,” it added.
Specifically, the Quad Comm called for the filing of charges against ex-President Rodrigo Duterte, Senators Ronald dela Rosa and Christopher Go, ex-Philippine National Police chiefs Oscar Albayalde and Debold Sinas, ex-colonels Royina Garma and Edilberto Leonardo and former Malacañang official “Muking” Espino.
Amid the effort of the government to seek justice for the victims of EJKs, the Commission said it is working on its independent pursuit of truth and justice regarding the bloody campaign against illegal drugs.
“It cannot allow any gaps that would enable the culture of abuse and impunity to grow further in this country, which is imbued with democratic principles,” the Commission stressed.
“The CHR views the collective action of the Philippine government and civil society towards supporting the victims of extrajudicial killings and their families as a crucial step in reshaping the Philippines’ drug policy in a way that upholds human rights, justice and accountability,” it noted.
“No one, regardless of position or rank, should be allowed to stand above the law,” the Commission further stated.
