CHR marks 38 years of commitment to human rights

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THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) proudly commemorates 38 years of resolute service and commitment to the Filipino people on May 5, 2025.

Guided by the 6th Commission en banc, CHR continues to build on its achievements, working to safeguard the rights of every Filipino, especially the marginalized and vulnerable sectors.

Since its establishment in 1987, the CHR has been instrumental in promoting upholding human rights, fostering equal justice and encouraging transparency among those in power. At the same time, the CHR has remained dedicated to strengthening its workforce, ensuring that employees are equipped with the resources and support necessary to continue delivering exemplary public service.

Layag: Navigating the tides of change for a stronger CHR

This year's theme, "Layag: Komisyong nagbubuklod sa agos ng pagbabago, sama-samang itinataguyod ang karapatang pantao," emphasizes the CHR's collective and proactive approach to navigating change, expanding its reach and refining its services.

One of the key highlights of the year was the conclusion of Lakbay Karapatan Tungo sa Kamalayan (Lakaran), a groundbreaking human rights education campaign that reached all 16 regions nationwide.

This initiative culminated in the National Capital Region and aimed to deepen public understanding of human rights, particularly in grassroots communities.

In addition, the CHR concluded its Public Inquiry on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), focusing on incidents of red-tagging. The inquiry engaged a wide range of stakeholders, including civil society organizations and key government actors. It underscored critical issues related to due process, accountability and the need for protection mechanisms for HRDs.

Chairman Richard Palpal-latoc celebrated these milestones and commended CHR staff for their unwavering commitment to human rights. He emphasized the importance of continued efforts to foster transparency, accountability, and education in the face of challenges.

Palpal-latoc stated in Filipino, "We honor every effort continuously poured in by our fellow CHR members [amid] the significant changes in the country's human rights landscape. United, we embrace our ambition to uphold the dignity of every Filipino. We continue to sail toward a future, where the protection of human rights for all remains vibrant and alive."

Strengthening systems for greater impact

The CHR also celebrated its significant progress in institutional development. With 80 percent of its offices now ISO-certified under the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS) standards, the CHR has continued to improve its service delivery.

Additionally, the launch of Mismo — an online portal for filing complaints and requests — has made the Commission's services more accessible and streamlined. This portal forms part of the CHR's broader trajectory toward full digitalization, aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency and public access to human rights services.

The CHR also introduced its first training on the Human Rights-Based Approach to Reporting. This initiative aims to empower journalists with the skills and knowledge to report on sensitive issues with fairness, accuracy and respect for human dignity.

Looking ahead

As the sixth Commission en banc approaches its mid-year, the leadership remains optimistic about the future with plans for continued progress in human rights advocacy.

Commissioner Beda Epres encouraged CHR employees to continue their service with integrity and compassion. Commissioner Faydah Dumarpa recognized the continued commitment of CHR personnel to the CHR's Quality Policy— promptness, excellence, responsiveness and accessibility — while Commissioner Monina Arevalo-Zenarosa described the CHR staff as the "wind" propelling the Commission's "layag" toward a more compassionate and purposeful service.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Maria Amifaith Fider-Reyes praised the employees of the CHR for their hard work and dedication. Their quiet work, be it in the backroom or the frontline services, or even in institutional reforms, will always be appreciated.

As the CHR commemorates this milestone, it reminds everyone that upholding human rights is a shared responsibility that calls upon the commitment and conscience of all.