CHR urges gov’t to review cases of ‘arbitrary arrest, unjust detention’ to decongest detention facilities

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday urged the government to review cases of “arbitrary arrest and unjust detention” due to political reasons in order to decongest detention facilities in the country.

The CHR said the government’s main obligation is to ensure the human rights and well-being of all persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) regardless of background or history.

“As part of its decongestion measure, we call on the government to use the principles of due process; presumption of innocence; and the right to a speedy, impartial, and public trial in reviewing cases, including that of former CHR chairperson and senator Leila de Lima and other PDLs awaiting for the wheels of justice to turn judiciously,” the commission said in a statement.

It also expressed concern over the issues of "overcrowding, poor sanitation and ventilation, and lack of healthcare support” in most of the country’s detention centers.

“The commission further underscores that a humane correctional system which promotes the release of PDLs—especially those who have qualified for clemency, such as the elderly and the sick—bolsters the realization of citizens’ fundamental right to liberty and due process,” it added.

The CHR’s call came as it lauded the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) for the release of 416 PDLs last February 20.

Of those released, 78 were acquitted, nine were granted probation, and 81 were released on parole, while the remaining served their maximum sentence.

“[The] CHR acknowledges that this recent action by the BuCor, as well as their plan to release 5,000 more qualified PDLs by June 2023, contributes to the overall decongestion of detention facilities,” the commission said.

“To complement BuCor’s efforts, CHR shall also continue to exercise its mandate to visit jails and detention facilities to promote the welfare and humane treatment of the incarcerated and accused in order to promote the values of justice, fairness, and respect for all,” it added. — Richa Noriega/RSJ, GMA Integrated News