The Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) has submitted a joint Civil Society Organization (CSO) alternative report for the 77th session of the UN Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (CESCR), where the Philippines will undergo a review of its compliance with international human rights obligations. The report sheds light on sectoral issues that remain unaddressed by the Philippine government and exposes how these directly impact the human rights of its citizens.

“The Philippine government continuously fails to uphold economic, social, and cultural rights, and our report provides concrete evidence of this neglect. From lack of access to essential services to the persecution of human rights defenders, the situation demands urgent international scrutiny,” said Egay Cabalitan, Secretary-General of PAHRA.

PAHRA emphasizes that the human rights situation in the country has reached a critical point, particularly in the wake of alarming attacks against activists and human rights defenders. The recent ambush and abduction of Lejun dela Cruz, a farmers’ rights organizer, underscores the continuing trend of violence and impunity. Dela Cruz was ambushed by gunmen in Cainta, Rizal, beaten for nearly three hours, and forcibly taken by individuals who later claimed to be police officers.

“Violent attacks against human rights defenders and activists have not stopped; they have only evolved. What happened to Lejun is a stark reminder that state forces continue to weaponize fear and repression against those who fight for justice,” Cabalitan added.

The case of Sally Ujano, a dedicated advocate against human trafficking who was unjustly detained, also reflects the government’s pattern of targeting individuals working for social justice. PAHRA asserts that these incidents are not isolated but part of a broader system of repression that undermines fundamental freedoms.

Compounding these human rights violations is the 2025 national budget, which PAHRA argues prioritizes political interests over the welfare of ordinary Filipinos. Instead of directing resources towards healthcare, education, and social services, the budget is being used as an election tool through patronage-driven ‘ayuda’ programs, leaving critical human rights issues unaddressed.

“The 2025 budget is a roadmap of misplaced priorities. It is not a budget for the people—it is a budget for those in power. It fails to alleviate poverty, support labor rights, or address the housing crisis, proving once again that economic and social rights are mere afterthoughts for this administration,” PAHRA said.

PAHRA calls on the UN Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights to hold the Philippine government accountable for its failures and urges the administration to engage in genuine reforms that uphold the dignity and rights of all Filipinos.

February 19, 2025
Press Release
Contact Person:
Denzel Nery – 09951520053