BACOLOD City — Human rights defenders (HRDs) in Bacolod City will have a city-backed legal framework for protection against intimidation, reprisal, red-tagging, defamation and other forms of harassment following the approval of a landmark ordinance by the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP).
The City Council approved on third and final reading on September 30 the “Bacolod City Human Rights Defender (HRD) Ordinance,” authored by Councilor Wilson Gamboa Jr., chairman of the SP Committees on Human Rights, Veterans Affairs and History.
The measure directs the city government to recognize, respect, protect and fulfill the rights of HRDs while establishing mechanisms for their safety, assistance and empowerment.
Gamboa said the ordinance provides a local legal framework defining the rights and fundamental freedoms of HRDs and setting out the responsibilities of the city government in protecting them.
Under the ordinance, HRDs are recognized as having the right to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms, organize and form associations, participate in public affairs, seek and disseminate information, advocate human rights principles, and communicate with government, nongovernment and intergovernmental organizations.
The measure also provides specific protection against vilification, intimidation, reprisal, defamation and stigmatization.
It recognizes the right of HRDs and victims of human rights violations to effective remedies and full reparation, as well as access to assistance and protection.
The city government, meanwhile, will be required to facilitate the work of HRDs by providing access to public information and public spaces and investigating reports involving threats, intimidation and alleged violations of their rights.
The ordinance also requires the city government to apply a human rights-based approach in its governance and development programs, including peace and security initiatives.
Victims of intimidation, harassment or abuse must also be given access to legal, medical and psychosocial assistance under the measure.
A key provision is the creation of a Human Rights Defenders Committee (HDRC), which will serve as the mechanism for implementing the city’s protection program.
The SP Committee on Human Rights chairman is required to convene an assembly within 60 days from the ordinance’s effectivity for the creation and composition of the HDRC.
The committee will be chaired by the city mayor and will conduct human rights education, awareness and capacity-building programs for residents and law enforcement personnel.
It will also be tasked to act on reported violations, assist victims, monitor and document cases, and conduct public education campaigns on human rights.
Gamboa said the passage of the ordinance aims to create a safe and enabling environment for those who advocate for human rights.
He said the measure recognizes the role of HRDs in protecting fundamental rights and freedoms and strengthening democratic participation by providing mechanisms against threats, harassment and other forms of harm./PN
