CHR execs urge swift passage of charter to strengthen institution

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has called for the swift passage of its charter for it to become a more effective and internationally compliant national human rights institution.

“A strong and independent CHR remains indispensable to strengthening democratic institutions, safeguarding human rights, and upholding the dignity of every Filipino,” the commission said in a statement Thursday.

CHR urged the House of Representatives to strengthen the commission’s charter to ensure its alignment with the Paris Principles and retain its “Status A,” or full compliance, accreditation under the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions.

“Among the most crucial elements emphasized are the automatic and regular release of appropriations, a transparent and pluralist selection process, and the expansion of the CHR’s mandate to include economic, social, and cultural rights alongside civil and political rights,” the commission said.

Issued on January 20, 2026, the position paper was signed by CHR chairperson Richard Palpal-Latoc and four other commissioners.

In its position paper, CHR said the following proposed measures are “reflective of the shared aspiration to be a more effective institution that will protect and promote human rights.”

 • HB No. 349 or “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights as a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) and for Other Purposes”

  • HB No. 1433 or “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines as a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) and for Other Purposes”

  • HB No. 1798 or “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights as a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI)”

  • HB No. 3041 or “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution”

  • HB No. 3934 or “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution”

  • HB No. 4835 or “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution”

  • HB No. 4946 or “An Act Strengthening the Commission on Human Rights, as a National Human Rights Institution”

“The Commission reiterates its full support for the legislation of the CHR Charter. With its enactment, the Commission will be strengthened in ‘advancing and defending human rights’ of all nationwide including Filipinos living abroad,” CHR said. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News