Human Rights Online Philippines

In the current crisis we are facing, the greater the authority of government officials, the greater the possibility for them to abuse their power in dispensing public services to the people.

In this video posted by GMA News dated March 27, 2020, a barangay chieftain allegedly hit a resident with a bamboo stick when the latter and his wife were seen washing clothes outside their house. The authorities apparently argued that the person violated the enhanced community quarantine policy of the government during the Luzon total lockdown to fight the spread of the coronavirus.

Eventually, the incident has been resolved between the victim Marvin Alcorroque and Barangay Chairperson Benjie Hernandez of South Daang Hari in Taguig City. But during the interview done by 24 oras news reporter with the couple, Jane La Villa the wife of the victim said that Hernadez is to blame if something bad happens to his husband.

This barangay personnel must be made accountable and immediately sanctioned. They should be charged with administrative and, criminal charges—if warranted.

Abusive officials tasked to implement the policy will only discourage public cooperation. Public officials are not only limited to enforcing the law but also and more importantly to serve and protect the public’s interest and wellbeing.

Public officials should always be reminded to remain within the limit of the law, assuring accountability, participation, and as well as providing legal remedies for citizens whose rights and interests have been violated.

We encourage the public to continuously report such abuses.

Taguig City Council Mayor Lino Cayetano Department of the Interior and Local Government Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines

Please watch the video here:

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