AS REPORTED by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), Western Visayas has seen fewer complaints of grave human rights violations this year compared to the previous years, especially under the Duterte administration. This is a cause for optimism.
But while this positive development deserves recognition, it also calls for sustained and strengthened efforts to ensure that the gains are not reversed. Human rights advocacy must remain a priority, particularly in an era where the rights of vulnerable sectors — such as women and those affected by counter-insurgency campaigns — continue to face challenges. The decline in complaints should not breed complacency but rather fuel a renewed commitment to proactive measures.
A key factor in this progress has been the improved collaboration between CHR Region 6 and law enforcement agencies. Stronger relationships and joint activities, such as education campaigns, have not only enhanced trust but also streamlined access to critical information. This synergy is a model that must be expanded. Transparent communication and accountability mechanisms between government agencies and human rights advocates can serve as a safeguard against abuses while fostering mutual respect and shared objectives.
Education is also key in this advocacy. CHR’s forums, dialogues, and training sessions, particularly on laws addressing violence against women, show the transformative power of knowledge. Awareness empowers individuals to demand accountability, ensures that violations are reported, and fosters a culture of respect for human dignity. Expanding these initiatives to more communities, schools, and institutions will create a more informed citizenry equipped to uphold and protect human rights.
However, the responsibility does not rest solely on CHR or government bodies. Every individual must contribute in safeguarding human rights. By understanding and exercising our basic rights — to life, liberty, education, and access to food — we contribute to a society that values justice and equality. Communities must also be vigilant in holding authorities accountable, and ensure that progress is not undermined by negligence or abuse of power.
National government policies that actively involve CHR in human rights education and advocacy must continue and evolve. Funding and support for these programs should be consistent, as should efforts to monitor and evaluate their effectiveness. Meanwhile, the private sector and civil society organizations can complement these efforts by investing in human rights initiatives and fostering partnerships that amplify advocacy.
The decline in human rights violations in Western Visayas is proof that change is possible, but it is also a fragile achievement that requires constant vigilance.
