The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) calls “red-tagging” as “political vilification” or “red-baiting.”
(MANILA BULLETIN)
It said the United Nations Rapporteur on extra-judicial or arbitrary executions declared that victims of “red-tagging” are stereotyped or associated with communist groups, which is why they are targeted by the military or paramilitary units.
It also cited an opinion of Supreme Court Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen who said that “red-tagging” is “the phenomenon of implicating progressive civil group leaders to heinous crimes."
The CHR said it is deeply concerned with “red-tagging” under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) of 2020 which poses serious dangers since persons suspected of terrorist acts can be subjected to human rights violations.
ATA under Republic Act No. 11479 was enacted into law on July 3, 2020 and implemented 15 days later last July 18.
The constitutionality of ATA has been challenged before the Supreme Court (SC) and the 37 petitions have not been resolved.
The CHR said that Section 16 of ATA allows suspects to be placed under surveillance, interception, and recording of communications, while its Section 29 allows their detention without a judicial warrant of arrest.
It added the Section 34 of the law restricts the right to travel while Section 36 freezes the property and funds of suspected terrorists.
Should anyone fall victim to red-tagging, the CHR suggested that they reach out to the Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the CHR through its CHR "Tanggol Karapatan Online" or E-lawyering service, CHR Investigation Office, or CHR Legal Division.
The CHR encouraged victims to report to their nearest police station or dial "117" in case of emergencies. The NBI office is situated at Taft Avenue in Ermita, Manila with the trunkline (02)86238231 to 38 and fax number (02)85261216 or (02)85237414. The NBI email is [email protected].
It said the CHR is located at the SAAC Building, UP Complex, Commonwealth Avenue in Diliman, Quezon City. Its hotlines are 09360680982 and 09205061194 while its email is [email protected].
It added that the CHR's Investigation Office can be reached at 09150770097 and 09503699026 while its Legal Division's email address is [email protected].