CHR taps investigators to monitor, assess Duterte鈥檚 case following arrest
MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has deployed its investigators “to monitor and assess” the development in the case of former president Rodrigo Duterte following his arrest Tuesday morning.
The commission’s statement came after the Palace confirmed the issuance of as reported by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol).
“The CHR acknowledges the issuance of an arrest warrant against former President Rodrigo R. Duterte by the ICC as reported by the International Criminal Police Organization or Interpol. In line with its Constitutional mandate, CHR has deployed investigators to monitor and assess the developments surrounding this case,” it said on Tuesday.
The CHR likewise affirmed its openness to working with the ICC following the arrest of the former president for his alleged crimes against humanity.
It likewise noted that “due process” is an “integral pillar of justice—one that safeguards not only the rights of the accused but also ensures that the voices of victims are heard.”
“This steadfast commitment reflects CHR’s role as the country’s independent national human rights institution and its duty to help ensure that allegations of human rights violations are thoroughly examined and that justice is pursued through appropriate legal processes,” the CHR said.
“A fair and impartial legal process is essential in uncovering the truth and, ultimately, holding perpetrators accountable, should guilt be established. This aligns with CHR’s long-standing call for accountability over human rights violations linked to the campaign against illegal drugs under the Duterte administration,” it also pointed out.
Moreover, the CHR called on authorities to ensure the safety and protection of families of victims of alleged extrajudicial killings under Duterte’s brutal drug war.
“Creating a safe and secure environment is a crucial step towards breaking the culture of fear and silence, ultimately empowering more families and witnesses to pursue justice. It is crucial to continue to ensure their protection and provide an environment where they can freely testify without fear,” it said.
“The pursuit of justice cannot be stalled—every delay prolongs the suffering of those left behind. It bears repeating: the truth cannot be silenced. Accountability must prevail over impunity,” it added.
CHR also stressed that “accountability does not rest on one individual alone”
“All those who participated and were complicit in the violations must be held to account,” it emphasized.
Duterte landed back in Manila from Hong Kong around 10:30 a.m. and is currently at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City.
Based on reports, Duterte’s war on drugs left at least 6,000 people dead; however, human rights groups reported that the number may have reached 20,000.
