Human rights should never be compromised.
This is what the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) emphasized after President Duterte signed into law the new Anti-Terrorism Act on Friday.
Commission on Human Rights (MANILA BULLETIN)
The CHR had earlier expressed its reservations against the enactment based on what it considered as a vague and overbroad definition of "terrorism" that makes it difficult to distinguish an actual act of terrorism from an ordinary crime which is already penalized by the Revised Penal Code and other pertinent laws.
CHR Spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia said they are not opposed to the bill's intent to curb terrorism. However, they are against the law putting at risk the guaranteed rights of the people.
"Our position has been clear: CHR deplores how violence by terrorists has disregarded individual and collective rights through the destruction of properties and loss of lives. We are against terrorism. But in the pursuit of a safer nation, we cannot compromise our human rights," said de Guia.
The CHR said it will hold on to the government's commitment that human rights will be upheld. This includes the protection of free speech and the right to dissent and air grievances.
De Guia added that the government must observe due process, honor the presumption of innocence, and show respect for human dignity at all times.
"Ensuring that we live in peace is a human right. Let’s not frame human rights as if they are mere hindrances. They are the standards by which we demand actions from the government for a better, dignified life," she said.