CHR launches inquiry to address red-tagging in PHL

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) of the Philippines initiated a significant Public Inquiry into red-tagging, aimed at addressing human rights violations linked to this controversial practice.

Held on July 29-30, 2024, the inquiry brought together domestic and international experts to examine the systemic patterns of red-tagging and formulate recommendations to prevent further abuses.

“This Public Inquiry is a product of CHR’s proactive approach towards fostering a constructive dialogue across all stakeholders on the phenomenon of red-tagging,” said CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc. “We recognize that it is a widespread practice, therefore a matter of serious concern which may pose grave threats to one’s life, liberty, and security.”

Red-tagging, a practice where individuals or groups are labeled as communists or terrorists, has been a contentious issue in the Philippines, often resulting in severe consequences for those targeted.

The CHR’s inquiry aims to define and operationalize acts of red-tagging from the perspectives of both civil society and the State, ensuring comprehensive protection for human rights defenders (HRDs) and the public.

As the country’s independent national human rights institution, the CHR is mandated to monitor the Philippine government’s compliance with human rights standards.

The inquiry will serve as a fact-finding mission, employing a transparent and public approach.

The CHR’s goal is to develop concrete recommendations and mechanisms that will help prevent human rights violations associated with red-tagging.

“We are the bridge between the government and civil society,” Palpal-latoc emphasized. “In a democratic country where freedom of expression and peaceful assemblies sit at the core of every Filipino’s right to public participation, it is about time that we take measures to protect all Filipinos from acts which may stigmatize them and put their lives, liberty, and security in peril.”

The inquiry’s first session featured resource persons renowned for their work in identifying patterns of systemic violations.

The CHR hopes that this initiative will lead to effective accountability, redress mechanisms, and access to justice for those affected by red-tagging.

The Public Inquiry on the Current Situation of Human Rights Defenders, with a focus on incidents of red-tagging, is a vital step in promoting and protecting the rights of every Filipino.

The CHR envisions the inquiry as a progressive dialogue towards safeguarding human rights and enhancing the collaboration between the government and civil society.

The outcomes of this inquiry are expected to influence policy development, ensuring that the rights of all Filipinos are constantly promoted, protected, and fulfilled.