THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said it was alarmed by “continued incidents” of enforced disappearances, harassment, and unwarranted surveillance against members of civil service organizations (CSOs) by Philippine state forces.
“Following the recent public inquiry on red-tagging conducted by CHR, we are deeply concerned by allegations that state agents have intensified targeting of civil society organizations, posing grave risks to the democratic foundation and the rule of law in our country,” the agency said in a statement.
It added that CSOs play a crucial role in a functioning democracy.
“They are instrumental in voicing the concerns of marginalized groups, advocating for human rights, and supporting social and economic development in the Philippines. However, actions that undermine these organizations, such as enforced disappearances, fabricated charges, and asset freezes on baseless claims, violate not only fundamental rights but also the constitutional mandate to uphold civic space as a pillar of democracy,” the CHR said.
It added that Section 15 of Article XIII of the Constitution mandates that the State “shall respect the role of independent people’s organizations in enabling peaceful, democratic participation.”
The CHR said targeting or intimidating CSOs undermines public trust in government institutions, noting all branches of government and law enforcement agencies were duty-bound to protect the rights of individuals to assemble and associate peacefully.
It said all forms of intimidation against lawful CSOs must cease, and their role in advancing a just and humane society must be honored.
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