Human rights network launched

A Visayas-wide network of civil society organizations working to promote and protect human rights was launched in Cebu City recently.

Lawyer Stephanie Ciaros of Partido ng Manggagawa (PM) identified the newly-formed group as Tindog Katungod or Stand Up for Human Rights, and said it was launched as well in Bacolod City and other areas.

Ciaros said this partnership is in cooperation with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) under its Governance in Justice or Go Just program.

The lead organizations of Tindog Katungod are PM, Kalipunan ng Kilusang Masa, and Sentro ng Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa.

The network includes representatives from basic sectors such as labor, urban poor farmers, fisherfolks, women, youth, persons with disabilities (PWD), transport workers, and individuals from the academe in Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Oriental.

Ciaros said that one highlight of the group’s forums was a discussion on charter change, with former congressman Lorenzo Tañada III speaking about how current efforts to amend the 1987 Constitution are also a human rights concern.

Tañada pointed out that if the mode of changing the Constitution will be through a constituent assembly, then it is likely to serve the interests of incumbent lawmakers and may impair the political process.