CHR regional offices to help victims’ claims board

MANILA, Philippines - To fast-track the processing of claims of victims of abuse during Martial Law, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has offered the services of its regional and sub-regional offices to the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board (HRVCB).

CHR Commissioner Loretta Ann Rosales said the agency would be helping out, particularly in the filing and validation of claims.

This is to assist the HRVCB in its target of processing at least 20,000 claims by the end of the six-month filing period. The goal is based on the HRVCB’s projection of the number of victims.

“This would only be possible if we reach out to the biggest possible number of potential claimants who are living in far-flung areas,” Rosales said.

“Our lawyers are well-equipped to assist potential claimants in completing their forms and supporting documents. We also have special investigators and information specialists who can do field work in behalf of and under the guidance of the claims board.

“What is important is we lay down the basis for an effective and harmonious working relationship, considering the independence of the HRVCB,” she added.

In a recent meeting in Malacañang with the CHR and the National Historical Commission, President Aquino and Budget Secretary Florencio Abad pressed for the full and faithful implementation of the Marcos Victims Compensation Law to ensure maximum access by thousands of qualified claimants to full monetary and non-monetary benefits mandated by the law.

The amount of compensation to be given to victims under Republic Act 10368 is not fixed and shall be guided by a points system.

The law states that those who wish to apply must be persons who are human rights violations victims as defined by the law; claimants who are conclusively presumed to be a human rights violations victim; or the legal heir/s or authorized representative of human rights violations victims who are deceased, incapacitated or involuntarily disappeared. All applications must be submitted in person.

The HRVCB is now receiving applications for recognition and reparation in typhoon-ravaged Tacloban and other cities in the Visayas, HRVCB chairperson Lina Sarmiento said.

“We have been going to the regions to make the application easier for victims of Martial Law. They can file claims near the areas where they live,” she added.