CHR supports proposed law on National Preventive Mechanism in detention centers
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expressed its full support to the filing of various bills in Congress to set up a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) that would comply with the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT).
"The proposed legislation signifies a crucial step towards addressing the conditions of persons deprived of liberty, which may potentially amount to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, or even torture," the CHR said in a statement.
The CHR said the government is mandated to establish an NPM through legislation since it assumed the OPCAT in April 17, 2012. In 2016, the CHR created an Interim NPM (INPM) to encourage the government to adhere to the mentioned convention and its optional protocol.
The INPM, in turn, persistently campaigned for the enactment of legislation to establish the national NPM and has carried out proactive monitoring visits to specific places of deprivation of liberty, it said.
With the filing of the bills such as Senate Bill (SB) No. 2522, SB 2486, House Bill (HB) No. 08780, HB 06305, and HB 08933, the CHR said that the government is reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the dignity and well-being of all individuals, especially those in situations of vulnerability.
"Our gratitude goes out to the legislators who sponsor the various bills, specifically Senators Manuel 'Lito' M. Lapid, Francis N. Tolentino, Ronald 'Bato' M. dela Rosa in the Senate, and Representatives Bienvenido M. Abante and Rufus B. Rodriguez in the House of Representatives," the CHR said.
"By recognizing the importance of establishing an NPM, they demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of individuals deprived of their liberty," it added.
Aside from fulfilling its commitment to the OPCAT, the CHR said that the proposed bills would even institute a robust framework for preventive monitoring and visits to all places of deprivation of liberty to include mental health institutions and youth rehabilitation facilities.
"More than a legal obligation, it is a moral imperative to prevent and address any potential instance of mistreatment or abuse to genuinely foster a culture of accountability and respect for human rights in our country," it said.