Human Rights Week Highlights Dignity, Empowerment

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), in partnership with an inter-agency committee, launched the 2024 National Human Rights Consciousness Week on Dec. 4, 2024, at Liwasang Diokno, CHR Central Office.

This year’s theme, “Empowering Humanity: Upholding Dignity, Protecting Rights, and Promoting Peace,” underscores the vital role of human rights in fostering a just, peaceful, and inclusive society.

A key feature of the celebration is the launch of the CHR Contact Poster, an initiative designed to improve access to human rights services, especially in communities with limited internet connectivity. This tool complements the CHR MISMO digital platform and aligns with efforts to bridge the digital divide while promoting inclusivity.

CHR Chairperson Richard P. Palpal-latoc highlighted the significance of the week-long celebration, stating, “This celebration underscores our shared responsibility to protect and promote human rights. By working together, we strengthen our commitment to uphold the dignity and rights of every Filipino, fostering a culture of peace and inclusivity.”

Events lined up for the week include:

• Dec. 4: CHR-CSC Learning Session on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Rights in the Workplace
• Dec. 6: CSO Forum with Human Rights Defenders, Labor, and the Environment (morning) and Youth and Older Persons (afternoon)
• Dec. 10: Diplomatic Reception, Partners Summit, and International Human Rights Day celebration

The CHR Contact Poster seeks to address gaps in access to government services by offering an offline alternative to its MISMO platform. The poster, featuring the message “Nalabag ba ang inyong karapatang pantao?” (“Have your human rights been violated?”), was developed through the input of stakeholders such as Rep. Jocelyn Sy Limkaichong. It incorporates regional languages to resonate with diverse communities nationwide.

Executive Director Jacqueline Ann C. de Guia emphasized the initiative’s inclusivity as “The CHR ensured the use of regional mother tongues, enabling more Filipinos to better connect with the Commission’s services.”

The initiative exemplifies the CHR’s commitment to ensuring accessibility for all sectors, particularly the most vulnerable. This aligns with its mantra, “CHR ng Lahat: Naglilingkod Maging Sino Ka Man,” reflecting its dedication to serving all Filipinos.

The week concludes with the Gawad Karapatang Pantao awards ceremony, recognizing individuals and organizations that have significantly advanced human rights in the Philippines. This coincides with International Human Rights Day and the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The CHR encourages Filipinos to join the celebration as a testament to the enduring importance of human rights and a collective call to action for dignity, equality, and peace for all.