CHR to investigate disappearance of priest who was found alive in Cavite

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said it will conduct a probe into the sudden disappearance of Fr. Leoben Peregrino — the priest who was found unconscious and tied up inside his vehicle in Silang, Cavite two days after he went missing.

In a press statement Tuesday, the CHR expressed “grave concern” over the incident which it said was a “serious human rights violation.”

“CHR stresses that involuntary disappearance, by way of kidnapping or similar means, is a serious human rights violation. It impinges on an individual’s right to liberty and security, and, in extreme cases, may even result in violation of the right to life,” the commission said.

“CHR shall be doing its part for an independent motu proprio investigation of this case,” it added.

Peregrino — rector and parish priest of the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of the Most Holy Rosary in Rosario, Cavite — was reported missing on April 1 after supposedly leaving the church to buy candles. He did not return and was later found alive on April 3.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Peregrino was requesting privacy as he was with his family recovering.

CHR, for its part, said it “trusts” the PNP will continue the probe “until the truth behind the incident is determined, and its perpetrators are held to account”. — DVM, GMA News