ILOILO City – The number of human rights violation cases in Western Visayas has significantly decreased this year compared to previous years, especially under the previous Duterte administration, according to the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Region 6.
Atty. Jonnie Dabuco, CHR-6 director, confirmed that while the office continues to receive complaints this year, the number is notably lower. There were even months when no complaints were filed, he said.
Most cases, Dabuco noted, occur during fiesta seasons, such as May and June, when celebrations and liquor consumption sometimes lead to arrests. Some individuals then report alleged human rights violations.
“There are still cases, but compared to previous years, the numbers have significantly decreased, especially for grave violations like extrajudicial killings and murders. Complaints are fewer this year,” Dabuco said in an interview with Panay News.
While Dabuco could not provide exact figures as the year’s data is still being tabulated, he observed a notable decline in complaints filed with their office.
This year, typical complaints involve violations against women’s rights and alleged human rights violations related to counter-insurgency campaigns in Negros Occidental and Iloilo Province.
Comparing the current administration to 2018 and 2019, Dabuco highlighted a stark reduction in human rights violations.
One factor attributed to the decline is the smoother and well-coordinated relationship between CHR and law enforcement agencies. This improved collaboration has made it easier for CHR to access data and information from authorities.
“Our engagement with the security sector has become stronger. We’ve had more joint activities with the police, such as education campaigns. Access to military and law enforcement information is now easier compared to previous years,” Dabuco added.
Dabuco also credited national government policies that actively involve CHR in human rights education efforts. This partnership has strengthened advocacy campaigns and improved awareness.
Human Rights Day Observance
Today, Dec. 10, CHR celebrates Human Rights Day with the theme, “Empowering Humanity: Upholding Dignity, Protecting Rights, and Promoting Peace”.
The agency conducts dialogues and forums in schools and with local officials, checked compliance with the establishment of Violence Against Women (VAW) Help Desks, and held training sessions on Republic Act 9262, which addresses violence against women.
Dabuco emphasized that the promotion, protection, and fulfilment of human rights is not solely the responsibility of CHR or the government but requires everyone’s participation.
“Everyone must be aware of their human rights. By knowing our rights, we become empowered. This empowerment enables us to demand accountability for violations and ensure government obligations are fulfilled,” he said.
Basic human rights include the right to life, liberty, freedom of speech, education, and access to food, among others./PN
