The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Thursday called for an exhaustive and immediate search for two missing and allegedly abducted activists in Tabaco, Albay.
James Jimenez, 63, and his friend Felix Salaveria Jr., 66, were reported missing since last August.
“The Commission deplores these enforced disappearances as they gravely violate the fundamental rights of individuals, particularly the right to life, liberty and security,” the CHR said in a statement.
“We emphasize the urgent need for stricter enforcement of Republic Act No. 10353 or the Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act to address these incidents effectively,” it added.
“Bolstering the implementation of this law will help ensure that policy-level solutions are fully utilised to address the issue. In addition to the search for victims, it is imperative to identify and prosecute those responsible, holding them accountable under the rule of law,” statement read.
