CHR reminds gov’t ‘human rights must be center of COVID-19 response’

After the Department of Health’s announcement of the “brand agnostic” policy, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) reminded the government that respect and promotion of people’s rights must be the center of its COVID-19 pandemic response.

In a statement, the CHR welcomed the DOH’s recognition of an individual’s right to informed consent while receiving COVID-19 vaccines.

This after the DOH clarified that their brand agnostic policy will only cover the announcement of local government units on the specific COVID-19 vaccine brands that will be used on a certain vaccination schedule.

The CHR said DOH’s position stresses the four elements of the right to health of all individuals which are availability, accessibility, acceptability, and quality.

“Time and time again we stress that, in ending this pandemic, respect and promotion of human rights must always be at the center of all government actions,” the commission said.

“Human rights are not to be compromised, but should rather be prioritized. Ending this pandemic, after all, is in pursuit of the people's right to health and a safe and healthy environment,” it added.

Furthermore, the CHR urged the government to intensify its efforts in addressing factors that fuel vaccine hesitancy including deadly misconceptions.

The commission cited the recent Social Weather Stations survey which showed that only 58% of those who trust the government’s COVID-19 vaccine experts are willing to get inoculated.

“This percentage falls short in satisfying the goal of achieving herd immunity in the country,” the CHR statement read.

The commission likewise urged the public to be “more discerning” of the information about COVID-19, reminding them that vaccines are one of the best ways to avoid severe cases and deaths.

“We encourage everyone to get vaccinated when it is already your turn. Vaccines work. Protect yourselves, your loved ones, and your community.”

While CHR campaigned for the vaccination of all Filipinos, it also expressed hope for a more efficient and effective vaccine rollout in the country which will give importance to the plight of the vulnerable including the persons with disabilities.

The commission also mentioned the need for a vaccination program that will address the lapses in prioritization and protocols, and a rollout that puts the country’s resources into good use. — DVM, GMA News