‘Very limited’ access to justice for victims of rights abuses in PH – UN report

‘Very limited’ access to justice for victims of rights abuses in PH – UN report

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)— Victims of human rights abuses in the Philippines still encounter challenges in their pursuit of justice, according to the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN OHCHR).

In its report published Tuesday night, the UN OHCHR acknowledged the Philippine government’s steps to achieve accountability for those on the receiving end of the alleged rights violations. However, it noted that their access to justice remained “very limited.”

“Institutional and structural shortcomings in law enforcement and the judiciary remained, despite efforts to address some cases,” read the UN report.

“These shortcomings included limited oversight of human rights investigations, inadequate investigation capacity and inter-agency cooperation, limited forensic capacity and protracted judicial processes. Inadequate victim and witness support and protection and fear of reprisals also impacted victims’ engagement,” it added.

The UN rights office, in particular, said it has continued to receive reports on killings, detention, and intimidation against rights defenders, activists, journalists, and lawyers, among others.

The body also zeroed in on the anti-drug campaign launched by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2016. It highlighted the country’s initiatives in investigating related deaths, but noted the lack of convictions.

Government data showed over 6,000 have died in the bloody drug war — a figure contested by many groups that believe the toll is much higher.

Malacañang has yet to issue a response on the matter, but President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. previously vowed to ensure a “high level” of accountability for human rights issues in the country.

Recommendations for PH gov’t

In line with these findings, the UN OHCHR listed down recommendations to help the Philippines tackle the challenges.

These include thorough and transparent probes into all reported killings and violations, expedited work of the government’s inter-agency drug war panel, as well as refined, victim-centered approaches in crafting policies.

“There also needs to be further progress on accountability, and the High Commissioner believes the Human Rights Council should continue to monitor closely the progress and outcome of domestic and international initiatives to assess further approaches that may be required,” the report added.