New CHR chief says human rights situation in Philippines ‘fair,’ vows independence

Newly installed Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc on Wednesday said that the human rights situation in the Philippines is "fair" and promised that the government body will maintain its independence under his leadership despite his previously serving in the Office of the President.

“I have served several offices, several interests. And in all those agencies, and companies, I have served with utmost dedication. I think that is the only promise I can give the public. I serve with utmost dedication, unquestionable probity, and speedy disposition of cases,” Palpal-latoc told reporters in a media briefing.

The CHR announced his appointment as the new chairperson of the 6th Commission en banc on Tuesday evening.

Palpal-latoc previously served as Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs under the OP of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

He had also worked in several government agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office IV-A where he served as a lawyer and under the Office of the Ombudsman where he assumed various positions, particularly as a Graft Investigation and Prosecution Officer.

The official also confirmed working with Presidential Chief of Staff Victor “Vic” Rodriguez during his stint as a private lawyer, but said that it was “a long time ago.”

Palpal-latoc said the CHR will have a “participative leadership” under his helm. He is also eyeing implementing reforms in the commission, particularly on Filipinos’ “economic and social and economic rights.”

“I’m looking to focus more on economic and social and economic rights. Aside from civic and political rights,” he said.

“On the social and economic rights, the rights of workers. Rights of the people to a clean environment and protection of the rights and interests of our children,” he added.

Asked for his view on the country’s current human rights situation, Palpal-latoc said: “The human rights situation is fair. The justice system is working. Human rights as the agency itself is functioning well. We’ll keep monitoring the compliance with the government to our international commitment.”

The creation of the CHR is mandated under the 1987 Constitution. It shall be composed of a chairperson and four commissioners whose role is to investigate all forms of human rights violations related to civil and political rights. — BM, GMA News