CHR to PNP: Ensure safety of kin of drug killings

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure the safety of survivors and relatives of victims of drug-related killings under the present administration.

CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said the decision of the Court of Appeals to issue a permanent protection order for the family of the victims and a survivor of a “tokhang” operation last year highlights the problems in the government’s campaign against illegal drugs.

“(It is) an affirmation that the methodologies used by the police in carrying out the campaign on drugs ought to be revisited as it is fraught with flaws and is susceptible to abuse, as it may be a convenient cover for rogue elements within the PNP to commit other crimes,” she said.

“We urge the PNP to ensure accountability for its actions, justice for all the deaths perpetrated and to ensure the safety of victim-survivors of Oplan Tokhang,” De Guia added, referring to the police operation against drug suspects.

De Guia also lauded the judiciary for the issuance of the order, which it said was a demonstration of the strength of the system of checks and balances in the government.

“It sends a strong message from the judiciary of its adherence to the rule of law and its commitment to upholding human rights in the country. It also fosters faith in our courts as the last bastion of defending the civil liberties of the people,” she said.