The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has offered its own Witness Protection Program to the family members of radio commentator Percival Mabasa, better known as Percy Lapid, after they disclosed that they have been receiving threats.
In a statement, the CHR said the safety and security of the Mabasa family were included in the issues it discussed with Roy Mabasa, Percy Lapid’s brother who is also a journalist.
The Mabasa family had a meeting with the CHR led by Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc and Commissioner Beda Epres.
"CHR has assured the family that it will do its level best to help in addressing the case. The case conference was an opportunity for CHR to discuss several developments on the case, including exchange of information, pieces of evidence, and testimonies, that will help push the investigation forward," it said.
While the Mabasa family is still mulling its offer, the CHR said it is continuing its independent investigation on the death of Percy Lapid.
It expressed hopes that all relevant government agencies and personalities will be relentless in finding out the truth behind Percy Lapid's killing and determining accountability.
"Similarly, CHR also takes interests in other human rights concerns arising from this incident, such as the rights of persons deprived of liberty, improving jails and detention facilities, strengthening protection mechanisms for journalists’ safety, as well as possible lapses in observing government obligations towards human rights," the CHR also said in its statement.
Aside from the CHR, the Philippine National Police (PNP) had also offered protection to the Mabasa family.
TAGS: #CHR #Percy Lapid