PNP urged to respect human rights amid ‘harsher’ drug war

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has reiterated its call for the government to respect and protect human rights amid President Duterte’s warning of a harsher war on drugs.

“It is unfortunate that, as we celebrate National Human Rights Consciousness Week and the 70th year of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, which is founded on freedom, justice and peace, the country is being confronted with the threat of a harsher, more violent drug campaign,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said. 

“If the administration values human life, then human rights must be equally respected as there is no distinction between the two. We urge the government to uphold the rule of law and respect human rights, as part of its sworn obligation to all Filipinos,” she added.

Duterte earlier warned that he will “be harsh and there might be widespread violence” as he reiterated his vow to end illegal drugs in the country.

Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Albayalde maintained that the police would continue to operate within the bounds of the law despite the President’s pronouncement.

“We perform our duties within the limits of the law. Probably it’s just part of him or probably on how he says and emphasizes these things,” he said in an interview with ABS-CBN News Channel on Thursday.

During the opening of the National Congress on Human Rights on Thursday, CHR chairman Chito Gascon said there will always be a community that would protect human rights amid attacks from those in power. – With Cecille Suerte Felipe, Robertzon Ramirez