Category Archives: Action alert

[Action Alert] Two members of the labor organization, BMP, arrested by the PNP after staging a Labor Day protest action allegedly for violation of the ECQ rules

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Action Alert
May 1, 2020
(Philippines) Two members of the labor organization, Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino (BMP), arrested by the Philippine National Police (PNP) after staging a Labor Day protest action allegedly for violation of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) rule against social gathering and Republic Act 11332 or the Law on Reporting of Communicable Diseases in Rodriguez, Rizal

Dear Friends,

The Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is forwarding to you an appeal for the PNP not to file charges against members of BMP for taking part in the observance of the International Labor Day.

ACCOUNT OF THE INCIDENT

Reynaldo Dulay and Clarito Rastica, both BMP members, were arrested by members of the PNP after taking part in a protest action in relation to the international Labor Day celebration in their area in San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal.

Based on the report, Dulay and Rastica, along with other members of the organization, conducted a small protest activity to demand mass testing, adequate food and social amelioration, and paid quarantine leave and hazard pay for workers in San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal. A video of the event posted in social media showed the protesters following the requirement of social distancing and wearing of face masks. However, the police arrived and allegedly started arresting the protesters. Dulay and Rastica were the two persons accosted for alleged violation of the prohibition of social gathering during the ECQ.

Based on the information from some BMP members, Dulay and Rastica were brought to the Ynares Memorial Hospital for check-up, as part of the Standard Operating Procedure of the police upon a person’s arrest.

As of this writing, TFDP is trying to get in touch with Dulay and Rastica to gather more information.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution states in Article 3, Section 4 that “no law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.

SUGGESTED ACTION:

Please write a letter to the following authorities for them to reconsider the filing of charges against Dulay and Rastica for their actions are covered by the rights of persons to peaceably assemble. The organization maintains that they followed protocols of social distancing and wearing of face masks to ensure the safety of its members and the public as well.

Please ask the authorities to ensure in all circumstances, especially in the enforcement of the Enhanced Community Quarantine during the COVID 19 Pandemic, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms as enshrined in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, international human rights standards and international instruments signed and ratified by the Philippines.

Please send your letters to:

1. His Excellency Rodrigo Roa Duterte
President, Republic of the Philippines
New Executive Building, Malacanang Palace Compound
JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
1005 Philippines
Tel: +632 87368645; +632 87368603; +632-87368606; +632-87368629; +632-87368621
Telefax: +632 87368621
E-mail: pcc@malacanang.gov.ph

2. Hon. Menardo Guevarra
Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ)
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila
1000 Philippines
Tel: +632 85218348
Telefax: +632 85262618
Trunk line: +632 85238481 loc 217
Email: osecmig@gmail.com, communications@doj.gov.ph

3. Hon. Eduardo Aňo
Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
DILG-NAPOLCOM Center
EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel: +632 89250330; +632 89250331
Fax: +632 89250332
Trunk line: +632 88763454 loc 1001
Email: emano@dilg.gov.ph

4. Hon. Jose Luis Martin Gascon
Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
SAAC Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue
U.P. Complex, Diliman
Quezon City
Philippines
Tel: +632 89285655; +632 89266188
Telefax: +632 89290102
Email: chairgascon.chr@gmail.com

5. PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa
Philippine National Police
PNP National Headquarters
Camp General Crame, EDSA
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1100
Tel: +632 87230401; +632 87220650 local 3453/3473

6. Mayor Dennis Hernandez
Office of the Mayor
Rodriguez Municipal Hall
J.P. Rizal St., Rodriguez, Rizal
bayanngrodriguez@yahoo.com

Source:
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/736404/observing-social-distancing-bukluran-members-rally-on-labor-day/story/

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[Action Alert] Release of low-risk offenders and those most vulnerable persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), including the sick and the elderly, and victims of political incarcerations, to help decongest jails and protect all PDLs from the COVID-19 pandemic -TFDP

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ACTION ALERT: Release of low-risk offenders and those most vulnerable persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), including the sick and the elderly, and victims of political incarcerations, to help decongest jails and protect all PDLs from the COVID-19 pandemic

27 April 2020

Dear Friends,

The Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is forwarding to you an appeal regarding the immediate release of low-risk offenders and those most vulnerable to contracting the virus, including the sick and the elderly, to ensure that the human rights of PDLs are protected, especially in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The release of all political prisoners and detainees would not only help decongest jails, but also prevent worsening injustice and suffering brought upon them by political incarceration and combat the risk of COVID-19 infection because of jail condition.

——————————-
In a news article posted on April 24, 2020, at ABS-CBN.com (https://bit.ly/2y24KA9), the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) confirmed that an inmate at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) who contracted the Coronavirus died in the evening of April 23, 2020.

Based on the BuCor data posted in its official website, the total prison population at the NBP stands at 29,173, making it the most densely populated penal facility in the country. Concerned groups fear that this would lead to the catastrophic spread of the virus among PDLs.

It was also reported earlier that 18 female PDLs from the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong who were also diagnosed Corona virus-positive were transferred to NBP.

Meanwhile, in another news article in SunStar.com.ph (https://bit.ly/3cNvsLB), it was reported that as of April 23, the total number of persons infected with the Coronavirus at the Cebu City Jail (CCJ) was 129, 116 of whom are PDLs, while 13 are jail personnel.

TFDP and other human rights organizations are in solidarity with the call to release all victims of political incarceration, torture, and victims of red-tagging and trumped-up charges, because of their political beliefs and association, amid this health crisis.

According to TFDP, as of January 2020, there are 409 political prisoners and detainees languishing in jails nationwide – 232 in Luzon, 43 in the Visayas, and 134 in Mindanao. They have been suffering political incarceration for years and are now at risk of contracting the Coronavirus.

Raymund Narag, a prison reform advocate, in his article posted and shared online as early as March, already warned that jails and prisons are among the most susceptible areas to the spread of the virus. According to him, “With an overcrowding rate of 350%, the Philippines has the most congested correctional system in the world. If one of the PDLs gets infected in the congested jails, it could be a catastrophe.”

“Our jail staff would be tremendously strained to handle the infection once it starts. Despite their best efforts and even in normal circumstances, they lack medical facilities and doctors to handle routine health problems. We have recently witnessed jail unrest in more resource-endowed jail and prison facilities in Italy and the USA. We are not sure what the outcome would be if similar unrest began in the Philippines correctional system,” he added.

Human rights groups have been urging the Supreme Court and the Department of Justice to release low-risk offenders and those most vulnerable to contracting the virus, including the sick and the elderly, for humanitarian reasons, and also to be able to decongest the facilities and prevent the impending catastrophe.

SUGGESTED ACTION:

Please write a letter to the following authorities urging them to:

• fulfill their obligation to treat all prisoners with respect for their inherent dignity and value as human beings and ensure that their human rights are protected, especially in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic;
• conduct mass testing for COVID-19 for PDLs and jail personnel in all prison facilities;
• immediately release PDLs with low risk profiles or have committed minor and petty offenses; with imminent release dates; the elderly and the sickly; and those who are arbitrarily detained subject to court review;
• immediately release children in detentions with adequate care arrangements from relevant government agencies mandated to provide child protection;
• provide adequate housing and reasonable accommodation to PDLs who are qualified for immediate release but may not have a residence upon release while they are undergoing re-integration program;
• release all political prisoners and detainees;
• consider that any measure to prevent outbreaks of COVID-19 in places of detention must be necessary, proportionate and must be based on public health emergency guidelines on social distancing and other health measures;
• bear in mind that under no circumstance shall the isolation or quarantine be used to justify derogation of rights or the imposition of harsher penalties or less adequate conditions; and
• guarantee the protection and well-being of prison staff. The prison authorities should device appropriate work arrangement as an emergency plan, which include regular health monitoring, and provision of personnel protective equipment.

Please send your letters:

1. HIS EXCELLENCY RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE
President, Republic of the Philippines
New Executive Building, Malacanang Palace Compound
JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
1005 Philippines
Tel: +632 87368645; +632 87368603; +632-87368606; +632-87368629; +632-87368621
Telefax: +632 87368621
E-mail: pcc@malacanang.gov.ph

2. HER EXCELLENCY MARIA LEONOR G. ROBREDO
Vice President, Republic of the Philippines
Reception House 110 11th Street
Brgy. Mariana, New Manila, Quezon City
TL: +632 5346451
E-mail: vp@ovp.gov.ph; lenirobredo.ovp@gmail.com

3. HON. MENARDO GUEVARRA
Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ)
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila
1000 Philippines
Tel: +632 85218348
Telefax: +632 85262618
Trunkline: +632 85238481 loc 217
Email: osecmig@gmail.com, communications@doj.gov.ph

4. HON. EDUARDO AŇO
Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
DILG-NAPOLCOM Center
EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel: +632 89250330; +632 89250331
Fax: +632 89250332
Trunkline: +632 88763454 loc 1001
Email: emano@dilg.gov.ph

5. HON. JOSE LUIS MARTIN GASCON
Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
SAAC Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue
U.P. Complex, Diliman
Quezon City
Philippines
Tel: +632 89285655; +632 89266188
Telefax: +632 89290102
Email: chairgascon.chr@gmail.com

6. PNP CHIEF LT. GEN. ARCHIE GAMBOA
Philippine National Police
PNP National Headquarters
Camp General Crame, EDSA
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1100
Tel: +632 87230401; +632 87220650 local 3453/3473

7. USEC GERALD Q. BANTAG
Director General, Bureau of Corrections
NBP Reservation, Muntinlupa City, Philippines, 1776
8809-80-73, 8850-32-82, 8809-97-75
Telephone: +632 850-50-02, +632 807-23-68

8. SEC. CARLITO G. GALVEZ, JR.
Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process
5/F Agustin I Building, F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig, Philippines
Office of the Secretary: +632 637-6083
Trunk line: +632 636-0701 to 07
Fax: +632 638-2216
Email: peace.opapp@gmail.com

9. J/DIR ALLAN SULLANO IRAL, CESE
Chief, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)
Address: 144 Mindanao Avenue, Project 8, Quezon City, Philippines 1106
Email: itu@bjmp.gov.ph
Trunkline: 89276383, 89275505, 89275807
Tel: 9276383 loc. 402

https://www.facebook.com/notes/task-force-detainees-of-the-philippines/action-alert-release-of-low-risk-offenders-and-those-most-vulnerable-pdls-includ/3804311962944761/

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Include your full name, e-mail address, and contact number.

All submissions are republished and redistributed in the same way that it was originally published online and sent to us. We may edit submission in a way that does not alter or change the original material.

Human Rights Online Philippines does not hold copyright over these materials. Author/s and original source/s of information are retained including the URL contained within the tagline and byline of the articles, news information, photos, etc.

[Action Alert] (Philippines) Mentally-challenged man killed by members of the Philippine National Police during the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Quezon City -TFDP

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Action Alert
(Philippines) Mentally-challenged man killed by members of the Philippine National Police during the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Quezon City

April 22, 2020

Dear Friends,

The Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is forwarding to you an appeal for further investigation regarding the killing of a mentally-challenged man by members of the Philippine National Police during their enforcement of the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Quezon City.

——————————————————————————-

ACCOUNT OF THE INCIDENT:

Winston Ragos, a 34-year old retired member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) who was mentally-challenged was shot dead by a member of the Philippine National Police (PNP) at around 2:30 PM on April 21, 2020, along Maligaya Drive corner Sampaguita St., Barangay Pasong Putik, Quezon City.

According to the police spot report on the incident, PMSg Daniel Florendo requested police back up to apprehend Ragos, who was alleged by the police to be carrying a handgun in his sling bag.

Florendo, along with four police trainees, namely Dajeles Gaciles, Arnel B. Fontillas, Jr., Joy P. Flaviano, and Dante G. Fronda were said to be initially manning the Quarantine Control Point in Maligaya Drive in front of the 7/11 convenience store when Ragos allegedly asked Fontillas and Flaviano, “Ang sama mo makatingin, ano ba ang problema mo?” (“Why are you looking at me like that, what’s your problem?”)
Based on a video of the incident that appeared online, people in the area tried to tell the police that Ragos was not well. He was allegedly mentally-challenged because of his duty in the AFP. They said that Ragos was “war shocked” from his assignment in the AFP. However, based on the video, the police did not heed the people who were trying to protect Ragos.

Based on another video, Ragos was seen with his back to the police with both his hands held up, when members of the police asked him to drop to his knees. However, according to another post by a certain Fae Macahilig, allegedly a niece of Ragos, Ragos tried to show the police that he did not have a gun in his sling bag. Ragos’ gesture, based on the police spot report, was interpreted by the police as “attempt to pull out his firearm inside his sling bag”. Hence, Florendo shot Ragos twice that resulted in his death.

The police claimed in their report that a .36 Smith and Wesson revolver without a serial number and loaded with four ammunition/cartridges were found in the victim’s possession. However, Macahilig claimed in her post that Ragos did not have a gun.

In the same post, Macahilig claimed that during the incident, people were being prevented to take videos of what was happening; those who were able to take videos were allegedly also harassed into deleting the shots or footage.

Macahilig also lamented the absence of the members of the barangay who could have convinced the police that Ragos was mentally ill. This could have deescalated the situation since the police did not listen to the residents.

Article 4 Section 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights states that “in time of public emergency which threatens the life of the nation and the existence of which is officially proclaimed, the State Parties to the present Covenant may take measures derogating from their obligations under the present Covenant to the extent strictly required by the exigencies of the situation, provided that supposed measures are not inconsistent with their other obligations under international law and do not involve discrimination solely on the ground of race, colour, sex, language, religion or social origin.”

However, Article 4 section 2 also mentioned that there should be no derogation from Article 6. Article 6 states that “every human being has the inherent right to life. This right shall be protected by law. No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his life.”

In the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the right to life is protected in Article 3, Section 1, “No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws.”

As of this writing, homicide charge has been filed against the police officer who shot Ragos. The Philippine Army has also asked the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate the case.

SUGGESTED ACTION:

Please write a letter to the following authorities, for a swift and impartial investigation on the killing of Mr. Winston Ragos and also to urge the PNP to apply maximum tolerance against alleged violators of the Enhanced Community Quarantine and to observe the PNP Manual in the application of necessary and reasonable force.

A. Ensure that all who participated and were responsible for the killing of Winston Ragos be investigated and if need be, brought to justice.
B. Ensure in all circumstances respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in accordance with the 1987 Philippine Constitution, international human rights standards and international instruments ratified by the Philippines, especially in the enforcement of the Enhanced Community Quarantine during the COVID 19 Pandemic.

Please send your letters:

1. His Excellency Rodrigo Roa Duterte
President, Republic of the Philippines
New Executive Building, Malacanang Palace Compound
JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
1005 Philippines
Tel: +632 87368645; +632 87368603; +632-87368606; +632-87368629; +632-87368621
Telefax: +632 87368621
E-mail: pcc@malacanang.gov.ph

2. Hon. Menardo Guevarra
Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ)
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila
1000 Philippines
Tel: +632 85218348
Telefax: +632 85262618
Trunkline: +632 85238481 loc 217
Email: osecmig@gmail.com, communications@doj.gov.ph

3. Hon. Eduardo Aňo
Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
DILG-NAPOLCOM Center
EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel: +632 89250330; +632 89250331
Fax: +632 89250332
Trunkline: +632 88763454 loc 1001
Email: emano@dilg.gov.ph

4. Hon. Jose Luis Martin Gascon
Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
SAAC Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue
U.P. Complex, Diliman
Quezon City
Philippines
Tel: +632 89285655; +632 89266188
Telefax: +632 89290102
Email: chairgascon.chr@gmail.com

5. PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa
Philippine National Police
PNP National Headquarters
Camp General Crame, EDSA
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1100
Tel: +632 87230401; +632 87220650 local 3453/3473

6. Mayor Josefina Belmonte
Office of the Mayor
11th Floor, Quezon City Hall, High Rise Building, Quezon City
https://web.facebook.com/MayorJoyBelmonte

Submit your contribution online through HRonlinePH@gmail.com
Include your full name, e-mail address, and contact number.

All submissions are republished and redistributed in the same way that it was originally published online and sent to us. We may edit submission in a way that does not alter or change the original material.

Human Rights Online Philippines does not hold copyright over these materials. Author/s and original source/s of information are retained including the URL contained within the tagline and byline of the articles, news information, photos, etc.

[Action Alert] (Philippines) Arrest of more than 75,000 individuals for curfew violations during Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine -TFDP

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Action Alert

April 9, 2020

(Philippines) Arrest of more than 75,000 individuals for curfew violations during Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine

Dear Friends,

The Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is forwarding to you an appeal regarding the arrest of more than 75,000 individuals for curfew violations during the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.

————————————————————————————————————————————
According to a news article written by Danielle Nakpil and posted on cnnphilippines.com on April 7, 2020 (https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/4/7/More-than-75,000-individuals-arrested-for-curfew-violations-.html), more than 75,000 individuals have been arrested as of April 3 for violating curfew hours in the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.

The article cited the report of the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee that 75,750 curfew violators have been accosted by the Joint Task Force Coronavirus Shield (JTF CoViD Shield).

While the implementation of curfew hours is a measure for the protection of the welfare of citizens and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the police cannot just arrest individuals for violation of health emergency measures. A warrantless arrest may only be done if the individual assaults the law enforcer or is caught committing a crime.

Article 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) provides that “no one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile. Likewise, the 1987 Philippine Constitution guarantees that no Filipino shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.

It is also alarming that there have been reports of arrested individuals having been detained in cramped spaces where it would be impossible for them to practice physical distancing. This defeats the very purpose of the enhanced community quarantine.

Furthermore, in the post of the Philippine National Police on April 8, 2020, in its Facebook account, it mentioned that according to the data of JTF CoViD Shield from March 17 to April 7, a total of 93,242 violators have been accosted nationwide. More than half of the violators were from Luzon. Some of the violators were fined, some were charged, while others are set to be slapped with appropriate charges.

We wish to remind the government that at this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is the health of the citizens that should be the priority. This crisis should be considered and handled as a health issue, rather than a peace and order situation problem. What the government should focus on is the prevention of the increase of COVID-19 cases, not the increase in the number of individuals arrested.

SUGGESTED ACTION:

Please write a letter to the following authorities, urging them to:

A. respect each person’s right to liberty and security and initiate inquiries of possible human rights violations in the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine;

B. guarantee in all circumstances the physical and psychological integrity of people asserting their rights during the enhanced community quarantine; and

C. ensure in all circumstances, especially in this time of the COVID 19 pandemic, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in accordance with the 1987 Philippine Constitution, international human rights standards and international instruments signed and ratified by the Philippines.

Please send your letters:

1. His Excellency Rodrigo Roa Duterte
President, Republic of the Philippines
New Executive Building, Malacanang Palace Compound
JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
1005 Philippines
Tel: +632 87368645; +632 87368603; +632-87368606; +632-87368629; +632-87368621
Telefax: +632 87368621
E-mail: pcc@malacanang.gov.ph

2. Her Excellency Maria Leonor G. Robredo
Vice President, Republic of the Philippines
Reception House 110 11th Street
Brgy. Mariana, New Manila, Quezon City
TL: +632 5346451
E-mail: vp@ovp.gov.ph; lenirobredo.ovp@gmail.com

3. Hon. Menardo Guevarra
Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ)
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila
1000 Philippines
Tel: +632 85218348
Telefax: +632 85262618
Trunkline: +632 85238481 loc 217
Email: osecmig@gmail.com, communications@doj.gov.ph

4. Hon. Eduardo Aňo
Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
DILG-NAPOLCOM Center
EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel: +632 89250330; +632 89250331
Fax: +632 89250332
Trunkline: +632 88763454 loc 1001
Email: emano@dilg.gov.ph

5. Hon. Jose Luis Martin Gascon
Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
SAAC Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue
U.P. Complex, Diliman
Quezon City
Philippines
Tel: +632 89285655; +632 89266188
Telefax: +632 89290102
Email: chairgascon.chr@gmail.com

6. PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa
Philippine National Police
PNP National Headquarters
Camp General Crame, EDSA
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1100
Tel: +632 87230401; +632 87220650 local 3453/3473

Submit your contribution online through HRonlinePH@gmail.com
Include your full name, e-mail address, and contact number.

All submissions are republished and redistributed in the same way that it was originally published online and sent to us. We may edit submission in a way that does not alter or change the original material.

Human Rights Online Philippines does not hold copyright over these materials. Author/s and original source/s of information are retained including the URL contained within the tagline and byline of the articles, news information, photos, etc.

[Action Alert] (PHILIPPINES) Curfew and ECQ violators allegedly arrested and paraded in the streets by Barangay Pineda officials in Pasig City -TFDP

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ACTION ALERT

April 6, 2020

Dear Friends,

The Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is forwarding to you an appeal regarding the alleged practice of cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment of curfew violators in Barangay Pineda, Pasig City by the Barangay Security Force headed by Barangay Captain Francisco de Leon.

CASE TITLE: Cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment of curfew violators in Barangay Pineda, Pasig City
DATE OF INCIDENT: March 29, 2020
PLACE OF INCIDENT: Barangay Pineda, Pasig City
ALLEGED PERPETRATORS: Barangay Captain Francisco de Leon and Barangay Security Force

ACCOUNT OF THE INCIDENT:

Based on a report of ABS-CBN on March 29, 2020, more than a dozen persons were allegedly arrested by Barangay Pineda, Pasig City security force for violating the enhanced community quarantine and curfew in the said barangay.

According to a resident who refused to mention his name, most of those arrested failed to show their quarantine pass, while others were caught loitering during curfew hours. They were brought to the barangay hall for blotter. They were then told to fall in line, were given candles and copies of a prayer that they were made to recite while parading the street.

In the interview of ABS CBN news to Barangay Captain Francisco de Leon, he said, “Yan ang parusa, at sinasabihan naming sila na sumunod sa batas, pwede namin silang kasuhan ng disobedience at ito ay may parusang pagkakakulong”. (“That is the punishment; we told them to follow the law, they could be charged with disobedience which has a penalty of imprisonment.”)

Based on the video posted by a certain Jonas Carandang III in his Facebook account, those arrested, all wearing face masks, were made to go on a procession around the village while they carried candles and recited prayers. Voices of people shouting in the background could be heard, “Magsisagot kayo! Kapag hindi kayo sumagot, magdamag kayo sa barangay hall!” (“All of you should answer. If you don’t respond, you will spend the night at the barangay hall!”)

The accosted persons were later released by the security personnel and the barangay staff. What they were allegedly subjected to, however, was cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, which is punishable under Republic Act 9745, An Act Penalizing Torture and other Cruel and Degrading Treatment or Punishment and prescribing penalties therefor (Anti-Torture Act). Section 5 of the law provides, “Other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment refers to a deliberate and aggravated treatment or punishment…inflicted by a person in authority or agent of a person in authority against another person in custody, which attains a level of severity sufficient to cause suffering, gross humiliation or debasement to the latter.”

SUGGESTED ACTION

Please write a letter to the following authorities urging them to stop the practice of cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment of curfew violators in Barangay Pineda, Pasig City. Moreover, to:

A. Guarantee in all circumstances the physical and psychological integrity of alleged violators of the quarantine;
B. Ensure that all those who participated and were responsible for the alleged human rights violation be brought to justice;
C. Ensure in all circumstances, especially in these trying times of the COVID 19 pandemic, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in accordance with the 1987 Philippine Constitution, international human rights standards and international instruments signed and ratified by the Philippines.

Please send your letters to:

1. His Excellency Rodrigo Roa Duterte
President, Republic of the Philippines
New Executive Building, Malacanang Palace Compound
JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
Tel: +632 873 68645; +632 8736 8606; +632 873 68629; +632 873 68821
Telefax: +632 873 68621
E-mail: pcc@malacanang.gov.ph

2. Hon. Menardo Guevarra
Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ)
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila
1000 Philippines
Tel: +632 85218348
Telefax: +632 85262618
Trunkline: +632 85238481 loc 217
Email: osecmig@gmail.com, communications@doj.gov.ph

3. Hon. Eduardo Aňo
Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
DILG-NAPOLCOM Center
EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel: +632 89250330; +632 89250331
Fax: +632 89250332
Trunkline: +632 88763454 loc 1001
Email: emano@dilg.gov.ph

4. Hon. Jose Luis Martin Gascon
Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
SAAC Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue
U.P. Complex, Diliman, Quezon City
Philippines
Tel: +632 89285655; +632 89266188
Telefax: +632 89290102
Email: chairgascon.chr@gmail.com

5. PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa
Philippine National Police
PNP National Headquarters
Camp General Crame, EDSA
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1100
Tel: +632 87230401; +632 87220650 local 3453/34733

6. Hon. Victor Ma. Regis N. Sotto
Mayor, Pasig City
8th floor, Mayor’s Office, Pasig City Hall
Contact: 0999 880 4490

7. Hon. FRANCISCO DE LEON
Barangay Chief
Banaag Street, Pineda Pasig City
Contact: +632 6319364

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[Action Alert] Quarantine violators in Bacoor City, Cavite were allegedly arbitrarily arrested, detained and subject to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment by members of the PNP -TFDP

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Action Alert

April 3, 2020

(Philippines) Quarantine violators in Bacoor City, Cavite were allegedly arbitrarily arrested, detained and subject to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment by members of the Philippine National Police

Dear Friends,

The Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is forwarding to you an appeal regarding the alleged practice of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment of quarantine violators in Bacoor, Cavite City allegedly by members of the Philippine National Police

ACCOUNT OF THE INCIDENT:

On April 2, 2020, a photo of alleged quarantine violators taken by ABS-CBN reporter Dennis Datu circulated online. Based on a report in Filipinotimes.net, there were 81 residents of Bacoor City who were taken by the Philippine National Police (PNP) into their custody. The residents allegedly violated the enhanced community quarantine being implemented by the Philippine Government to counter the spread of the COVID 19 virus or failed to present their quarantine pass.

The article mentioned that the members of the PNP then allegedly brought the residents to the cemetery to show them where they would end up if they contracted the virus.

The alleged actions of bringing the persons who violated the quarantine order to a cemetery to frighten them that they would possibly die, and exposing them under the heat of the sun are additional risks to the health of the alleged offenders.

Republic Act No. 9745 or the Anti-Torture Law of 2009 defines other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment as a deliberate and aggravated treatment or punishment not enumerated under Section 4 of this Act, inflicted by a person in authority or agent of a person in authority against a person under his/her custody, which attains a level of severity causing suffering, gross humiliation or debasement to the latter.”

On March 14, 2020, Mayor Lani Mercado Revilla issued Executive Order No. 10 and Memorandum Order No. 23, as a supplement to EO No. 10 on the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine in Bacoor City. In both documents, there was no mention of arrest and detention of any individual who would violate the said quarantine. What was mentioned in the supplemental order was that “non-essential going out of persons having high-risk of being infected… is strongly discouraged until and when the state of a public health emergency is lifted.”

On March 19, Bacoor Representative Strike Revilla made an announcement that the city was in lockdown, but no details of the guidelines were made available. As of this writing, there is no news regarding the lockdown is available on the Bacoor.gov.ph website.

SUGGESTED ACTION:

Please write a letter to the following authorities, urging them to stop the practice of arbitrary detention and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment of quarantine violators in Bacoor City and initiate inquiries in the possibility of human rights violations allegedly committed by the Philippine National Police.

A. Guarantee in all circumstances the physical and psychological integrity of the alleged violators of the quarantine.
B. Ensure that all those who participated and were responsible for the arbitrary arrest and detention and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment be brought to justice.
C. Ensure in all circumstances respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in accordance with the 1987 Philippine Constitution, international human rights standards and international instruments ratified by the Philippines, especially in these trying times of the COVID 19 Pandemic.

Please send your letters:
1. His Excellency Rodrigo Roa Duterte
President, Republic of the Philippines
New Executive Building, Malacanang Palace Compound
JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
1005 Philippines
Tel: +632 87368645; +632 87368603; +632-87368606; +632-87368629; +632-87368621
Telefax: +632 87368621
E-mail: pcc@malacanang.gov.ph

2. Hon. Menardo Guevarra
Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ)
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila
1000 Philippines
Tel: +632 85218348
Telefax: +632 85262618
Trunkline: +632 85238481 loc 217
Email: osecmig@gmail.com, communications@doj.gov.ph

3. Hon. Eduardo Aňo
Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
DILG-NAPOLCOM Center
EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel: +632 89250330; +632 89250331
Fax: +632 89250332
Trunkline: +632 88763454 loc 1001
Email: emano@dilg.gov.ph

4. Hon. Jose Luis Martin Gascon
Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
SAAC Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue
U.P. Complex, Diliman
Quezon City
Philippines
Tel: +632 89285655; +632 89266188
Telefax: +632 89290102
Email: chairgascon.chr@gmail.com

5. PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa
Philippine National Police
PNP National Headquarters
Camp General Crame, EDSA
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1100
Tel: +632 87230401; +632 87220650 local 3453/3473

6. Mayor Lani Mercado Revilla
Mayor, Bacoor City
3rd Floor, Bacoor Government Center
Bacoor City, Cavite
Tel: +63 46 481 4140

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Include your full name, e-mail address, and contact number.

All submissions are republished and redistributed in the same way that it was originally published online and sent to us. We may edit submission in a way that does not alter or change the original material.

Human Rights Online Philippines does not hold copyright over these materials. Author/s and original source/s of information are retained including the URL contained within the tagline and byline of the articles, news information, photos, etc.

[Action Alert] Philippines: Shoot to kill threat against alleged community organizers and left-leaning organizations by Cordillera Police

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Action Alert
April 3, 2020

(Philippines) Shoot to kill threat against alleged community organizers and left-leaning organizations by Cordillera Police based on the pronouncement of President Duterte on April 2, 2020

Dear Friends,

The Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is forwarding to you an appeal regarding the alleged harassment against alleged community organizers and left-leaning organizations by the Cordillera Police based on the pronouncement of President Duterte against left-leaning organizations and their alleged violations of the enhanced community quarantine
—————–
Based on a news article in Sunstar Baguio, on April 3, 2020, Director of PRO-COR, Brigadier General R’win Pagkalinawan allegedly cautioned members of left-leaning and lawless groups not to take advantage of the people during the COVID -19 pandemic, otherwise, they would face the bullet.

Pagkalinawan’s statement anchored on the pronouncement of President Rodrigo Duterte to “shoot them dead, the violators of the curfew, in case they fought back or nanlaban”. Pagkalinawan was quoted to have said, “He (President Duterte) is talking about the leftists. I will order my snipers to shoot communist organizers on the spot who will unnecessarily organize the masses at this time. But only when they fight back.”

Duterte’s statement came after the residents of Sitio San Roque, Quezon City conducted a demonstration to demand for food and relief packages, as promised by the Duterte government upon the implementation of the enhanced quarantine in Luzon and the granting of emergency powers to Duterte.

Government officials, including the President, blamed the urban poor organization, Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahirap (KADAMAY) for the protest, despite the initial police report that said that the activity was initiated by the Samahan Ng Magkakapitbahayan North Triangle Association (SAMANA).

The government considers KADAMAY as left-leaning and has red-tagged the organization in the past.

It should be noted that the Anti-Subversion Act had already been repealed in 1992 through Republic Act 7636. In addition, Article 2, Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution states that, “No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or of the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.” The Duterte government, however, has been advocating for the revival of the anti-subversion law.

Conflicting statements have been given by the national government in relation to the implementation of the said “shoot them dead” order. Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Archie Gamboa said that the president was only “overemphasizing” the rules in the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine, but they will not be shooting people dead. However, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said that there was nothing wrong with the president’s shoot to kill order against those who will create trouble and chaos during the enhanced community quarantine.

The government’s defense that the “shoot them dead” order only refers to those who will create trouble and chaos is very alarming. Every human being has the inherent right to life, and no one, in any given situation, shall be arbitrarily deprived of his or her life. Moreover, those that the government deems to be creating trouble and chaos are the poor who are rightfully demanding for food and relief.

The Duterte government also has a record of using the term “nanlaban” to justify its actions against those who they allege to be violating the law. Prior to the pandemic, the Duterte government had been criticized for its drug war. Based on the report of the PNP, as of May 31, 2019, it has killed 6,600 drug suspects during anti-drug operations. Most of those who were killed allegedly fought back or “nanlaban.”

SUGGESTED ACTION:

Please write a letter to the following authorities, urging them to respect each person’s right to life and freedom of association and initiate inquiries of possible human rights violations in the Cordillera region and the whole of the Philippines.

A. Guarantee in all circumstances the physical and psychological integrity of people asserting their rights during the enhanced community quarantine.

B. Stop the practice of “red-tagging” legitimate organizations and accusing them of having connections with the communist movement.

C. Ensure in all circumstances respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in accordance with the 1987 Philippine Constitution, international human rights standards and international instruments ratified by the Philippines, especially in these trying times of the COVID 19 Pandemic.

Please send your letters:
1. His Excellency Rodrigo Roa Duterte
President, Republic of the Philippines
New Executive Building, Malacanang Palace Compound
JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
1005 Philippines
Tel: +632 87368645; +632 87368603; +632-87368606; +632-87368629; +632-87368621
Telefax: +632 87368621
E-mail: pcc@malacanang.gov.ph

2. Hon. Menardo Guevarra
Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ)
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila
1000 Philippines
Tel: +632 85218348
Telefax: +632 85262618
Trunkline: +632 85238481 loc 217
Email: osecmig@gmail.com, communications@doj.gov.ph

3. Hon. Eduardo Aňo
Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
DILG-NAPOLCOM Center
EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel: +632 89250330; +632 89250331
Fax: +632 89250332
Trunkline: +632 88763454 loc 1001
Email: emano@dilg.gov.ph

4. Hon. Jose Luis Martin Gascon
Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
SAAC Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue
U.P. Complex, Diliman
Quezon City
Philippines
Tel: +632 89285655; +632 89266188
Telefax: +632 89290102
Email: chairgascon.chr@gmail.com

5. PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa
Philippine National Police
PNP National Headquarters
Camp General Crame, EDSA
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1100
Tel: +632 87230401; +632 87220650 local 3453/3473

https://www.facebook.com/notes/task-force-detainees-of-the-philippines/action-alert-philippines-shoot-to-kill-threat-against-alleged-community-organize/3726454534063838/

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Include your full name, e-mail address, and contact number.

All submissions are republished and redistributed in the same way that it was originally published online and sent to us. We may edit submission in a way that does not alter or change the original material.

Human Rights Online Philippines does not hold copyright over these materials. Author/s and original source/s of information are retained including the URL contained within the tagline and byline of the articles, news information, photos, etc.

[Action Alert] A barangay chieftain allegedly hit a violator of the Enhanced Quarantine with a bamboo stick -PAHRA

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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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Include your full name, e-mail address, and contact number.

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Human Rights Online Philippines does not hold copyright over these materials. Author/s and original source/s of information are retained including the URL contained within the tagline and byline of the articles, news information, photos, etc.

[Action Alert] Curfew violators in San Isidro, Paranaque City were allegedly arbitrarily arrested and detained and tortured by members of the police with the knowledge of Barangay Captain Noel Japlos -TFDP

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Action Alert
March 26, 2020

(Philippines) Curfew violators in San Isidro, Paranaque City were allegedly arbitrarily arrested and detained and tortured by members of the police with the knowledge of Barangay Captain Noel Japlos

Dear Friends,

The Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP) is forwarding to you an appeal regarding the alleged practice of arbitrary detention and torture of curfew violators in Barangay San Isidro, Paranaque City by alleged members of the Philippine National Police and under the direction of Barangay Captain Noel Japlos.

Case Title: Curfew Violators in San Isidro, Paranaque City ARD, TOR
Case: ARD, TOR
Date of Incident: From March 15, 2020 (start of community quarantine implementation in Metro Manila)
Place of Incident: Barangay San Isidro, Paranaque City
Alleged Perpetrators: members of the Philippine National Police and under the direction of Barangay Captain Noel Japlos
Motive: Strict implementation of the enhanced community quarantine by the Philippine Government to prevent the spread of the COVID 19 virus

ACCOUNT OF THE INCIDENT:

On March 24, 2020, photos of alleged curfew violators being exposed under the scorching heat of the sun were circulated online. The photos that circulated by ABS CBN News and RAPPLER were allegedly grabbed from the Facebook Account of San Isidro, Paranaque City Barangay Chairperson Noel Japlos.

According to Rappler, the barangay’s Facebook post, as of the morning of March 24, warned that persons who will be caught violating the curfew will also be made to sit under the sun.

The curfew ordinance of Paranaque City signed on March 15 did not give authority to members of the Barangay and the PNP to willfully detain curfew violators, but instead ensure that they are “directed to return to their respective residences, dwelling, or usual place of resting”.

The ordinance also clarified that an arrest could only be made if there is a “deliberate or willful refusal to comply with the lawful order of the public officer”.

Their alleged practice of placing alleged curfew violators under the heat of the sun further exacerbates risks on the health of the alleged offenders, as they may suffer from heatstroke.

The Anti-Torture Act of 2009 also defines physical torture as “a form of treatment or punishment inflicted by a person in authority upon another in his/her custody that causes severe pain, exhaustion, disability or dysfunction of one or more parts of the body.”

Prior to this incident, Barangay Chair Japlos had also posted videos of him warning residents of arrest should they violate the enhanced community quarantine. He also posted images of their operations against residents who earlier violated the curfew.

SUGGESTED ACTION:

Please write a letter to the following authorities, urging them to stop the practice of arbitrary detention and torture of curfew violators in Barangay San Isidro, Paranaque City and initiate inquiries in the possibility of human rights violations allegedly committed by the Philippine National Police and Barangay Chairman Noel Japlos.

A. Guarantee in all circumstances the physical and psychological integrity of the alleged violators of the curfew.

B. Ensure that all those who participated and were responsible for the arbitrary arrest and detention and torture be brought to justice.

C. Ensure in all circumstances respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in accordance with the 1987 Philippine Constitution, international human rights standards and international instruments ratified by the Philippines, especially in this trying times of the COVID 19 Pandemic.

Please send your letters:
1. His Excellency Rodrigo Roa Duterte
President, Republic of the Philippines
New Executive Building, Malacanang Palace Compound
JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
1005 Philippines
Tel: +632 87368645; +632 87368603; +632-87368606; +632-87368629; +632-87368621
Telefax: +632 87368621
E-mail: pcc@malacanang.gov.ph

2. Hon. Menardo Guevarra
Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ)
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila
1000 Philippines
Tel: +632 85218348
Telefax: +632 85262618
Trunkline: +632 85238481 loc 217
Email: osecmig@gmail.com, communications@doj.gov.ph

3. Hon. Eduardo Aňo
Secretary, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
DILG-NAPOLCOM Center
EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel: +632 89250330; +632 89250331
Fax: +632 89250332
Trunkline: +632 88763454 loc 1001
Email: emano@dilg.gov.ph

4. Hon. Jose Luis Martin Gascon
Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
SAAC Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue
U.P. Complex, Diliman
Quezon City
Philippines
Tel: +632 89285655; +632 89266188
Telefax: +632 89290102
Email: chairgascon.chr@gmail.com

5. PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa
Philippine National Police
PNP National Headquarters
Camp General Crame, EDSA
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1100
Tel: +632 87230401; +632 87220650 local 3453/3473

6. Mayor Edwin D. Olivarez
Mayor, Paranaque City
Paranaque City Hall
San Antonio Valley 1
Brgy. San Antonio, Paranaque City
Tel: +63 2 8820 7783

Photo source: https://www.facebook.com/abscbnNEWS/posts/10158129836375168

https://www.facebook.com/notes/task-force-detainees-of-the-philippines/urgent-actioncurfew-violators-in-san-isidro-paranaque-city-were-allegedly-arbitr/3698555846853707/

Submit your contribution online through HRonlinePH@gmail.com
Include your full name, e-mail address, and contact number.

All submissions are republished and redistributed in the same way that it was originally published online and sent to us. We may edit submission in a way that does not alter or change the original material.

Human Rights Online Philippines does not hold copyright over these materials. Author/s and original source/s of information are retained including the URL contained within the tagline and byline of the articles, news information, photos, etc.