The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has slammed as "morally reprehensible" a smear political campaign that used a video of a 57-year-old woman with a psychological disability in Pasig City.

The video showed the woman allegedly criticizing Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto for his reported lack of projects priotizing persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The video, which was reportedly recorded without the consent of the woman, is now circulating online, therefore causing great distress to her family.

In a statement, the CHR said: "The Commission strongly asserts that the deliberate use of a person with disability for political or smear campaigning is both morally reprehensible and a clear violation of human rights laws. Political engagement must never come at the expense of another’s dignity and rights."

It pointed out the importance of Resolution No. 11116 of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), which recognizes acts of discrimination against individuals from vulnerable sectors as an election offense.

Since the video became viral, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has started its own probe since the use of PWDs for politicking is a violation of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

“We will treat that as exploitation and abuse of the person with disability and if proven true, we will see to it that the Department takes the lead in filing appropriate charges against the people behind this allegation,” the DSWD said.

The CHR has acknowledged the speedy action of the DSWD as it also cited RA No. 7277, the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities.

It said RA 7277 guarantees equal opportunities, protection from discrimination, and the full participation of persons with disabilities in society. The law further affirms their right to be treated with dignity and to be protected from ridicule or exploitation, it also said.

At the same time, the CHR said that Article 16 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) underscores the obligation of States Parties to take all appropriate measures to prevent all forms of exploitation, violence, and abuse against persons with disabilities.

Thus, the CHR called on all relevant stakeholders to take appropriate action in investigating any potential violations of laws and campaign conduct rules.

"Ensuring that our democratic processes remain just, respectful, and inclusive -- especially for the most vulnerable -- is a shared responsibility that must never be taken lightly," it stressed.