UN rights chief urges PH to publish drug war report

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 8) — United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet is urging Philippine authorities to publish findings of their investigation into the Duterte administration’s drug war.

“I encourage publication of the panel’s findings so its work can be evaluated,” Bachelet said in her speech during the 48th session of the UN Human Rights Council.

She also urged officials to “involve the national human rights commission and other relevant actors including by sharing information on cases under investigation to ensure an effective and victim-centered process.”

The national government earlier formed an inter-agency panel led by the Department of Justice to look into anti-illegal drug operations in the country.

On Oct. 5, Justice Undersecretary Adrian Sugay said authorities identified possible criminal liabilities of around 150 police officers involved in over 50 drug-related cases that the panel reviewed.

Findings will be turned over to the National Bureau of Investigation, which will conduct case buildup and file criminal complaints if warranted by evidence.

Bachelet also expressed concern on the “continuing and severe human rights violation and abuse across the country” and the persistent red-tagging of human rights and environmental defenders, journalists, union activists, church workers, and humanitarian workers.

“As the Philippines heads into an election year, I urge all sides to set aside the ugly rhetoric and destructive narratives that label human rights defenders, attack independent media, or condone extrajudicial killings and other violations and abuse,” she said.

“The government should take action to ensure free civic space and protection for those who engage in peaceful civic action and debate at this particular important time,” she added.

Last month, the International Criminal Court’s pre-trial chamber found basis to start investigating killings committed under the drug war from July 1, 2016 to March 16, 2019 and similar crimes committed from November 1, 2011 to June 30, 2016 involving the so-called “Davao Death Squad.”

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan vows to work towards “successful, independent and impartial investigation” to bring justice to the victims and affected communities.