September 26, 2024 — Basilan, Philippines
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has expressed its full support for the Basilan provincial government’s recent passage of its first-ever ordinance aimed at safeguarding human rights defenders. The “Basilan Province Human Rights Defenders’ Protection Ordinance,” enacted on August 8, 2024, represents a pioneering move by the local government to provide legal protections to individuals and groups working to uphold human rights.
The ordinance is particularly significant as it is the first of its kind in the province and sets a precedent for similar laws throughout the Philippines. It clearly defines who qualifies as a human rights defender and outlines the responsibilities of authorities to ensure the safety and freedom of these individuals. The ordinance aims to create an environment where human rights defenders can carry out their work without fear of threats, harassment, arbitrary arrest, or enforced disappearance.
Key provisions include a detailed list of rights for human rights defenders, such as the freedom to promote and protect fundamental freedoms, form organizations, and secure necessary resources for their advocacy. The CHR emphasized that these measures underscore the importance of protecting those who champion the rights of marginalized and vulnerable groups.
“The CHR commends the provincial government for its proactive collaboration with civil society and for ensuring that the ordinance reflects the needs and concerns of human rights defenders on the ground,” the statement reads. “This development could serve as a catalyst for other local governments to pass similar laws aimed at protecting defenders across the country.”
The ordinance follows in the footsteps of Isabela City, also in Basilan, which passed the Philippines’ first local Human Rights Defenders’ Protection Ordinance in April 2023. Basilan’s ordinance builds on this foundation, and the CHR hopes that more local governments will adopt such measures, recognizing the essential role human rights defenders play in protecting and promoting the dignity and rights of all.
“We look forward to the day when defending the rights of the vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalized becomes a priority across the country,” the CHR added, expressing optimism for a future where grassroots efforts contribute to the broader protection of human rights in the Philippines.
The passage of this ordinance is seen as a critical step toward ensuring that human rights defenders can continue their work without fear of repression, and that local governments nationwide take an active role in protecting those who protect others.
