CHR Bantay Bilangguan Campaign: National Preventive Mechanism
“Prison Guard” Campaign Launched: CHR Champions Dignity and Rights for Persons Deprived of Liberty
Quezon City, Philippines – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) today announced the launch of its groundbreaking advocacy initiative, the prison guard campaign, a vital effort dedicated to upholding the inherent dignity and fundamental rights of all Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) across the nation. This comprehensive campaign underscores the CHR’s unwavering commitment to systemic reform within the country’s detention facilities and correctional systems.
At its core, the Prison Guard campaign is a strategic push for the urgent passage of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) Bill. This legislative cornerstone is crucial for the Philippines to fulfill its international obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT), a treaty ratified by the nation in 2012. The campaign also aims to bolster the CHR’s capacity to proactively prevent torture and other cruel,inhuman,or degrading treatment or punishment (CIDTP) in places of detention,thereby contributing to the national aspiration of a torture-free and rights-respecting philippines.
The official launch of the Prison Guard campaign is slated for July 18, 2025, at the CHR central Office in Quezon City. This pivotal event signifies a major stride in advocating for essential reforms in detention practices, prison conditions, and accountability mechanisms nationwide.
The Imperative of a National Preventive Mechanism
Systemic challenges demand systemic solutions.The CHR firmly advocates for the establishment of an self-reliant National Preventive Mechanism (NPM). This crucial body will be tasked wiht preventing torture and other abuses within detention settings through regular,unannounced or announced visits,the issuance of evidence-based recommendations,capacity-building for duty bearers,and constructive dialogue with relevant government agencies.
The CHR reiterates that torture and CIDTP are grave abuses of power that can never be justified. While the Philippines ratified the OPCAT over a decade ago, it remains one of the few state parties yet to establish its NPM. This prolonged delay highlights the critical urgency of safeguarding the rights of PDLs and fostering accountability within the detention system. In recent years, the CHR has consistently issued press releases condemning issues such as severe jail congestion, persistent reports of torture and CIDTP, and alleged strip searches of visitors, especially those connected to political prisoners.
Acknowledging and Amplifying Institutional Reforms
The Commission recognizes and commends the ongoing reform efforts undertaken by various institutions to address the pressing concerns of PDLs. These positive developments include the establishment of the Bilibid Extension School and the resumption of in-person classes at the Manila city Jail. Furthermore, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology has formally requested increased food and medical allowances for PDLs, acknowledging the persistent health-related challenges faced by this vulnerable population.
The Department of Justice has committed to conducting forensic autopsies on PDLs and issued a circular in 2023 aimed at lowering bail bonds for indigent PDLs.The Supreme Court has also facilitated access to justice by allowing videoconferencing for legal aid cases. To consolidate and propel these vital initiatives forward, the CHR asserts that the establishment of the National Preventive Mechanism must be prioritized as a foundational element for lasting change.As the nation’s independent national human rights institution, the CHR remains resolutely committed to its constitutional mandate of protecting the rights of all individuals, including those in conflict with the law. True rehabilitation and justice, the CHR emphasizes, can only be achieved through an unwavering dedication to human dignity, fairness, and the rule of law.For a comprehensive understanding of the issues and the CHR’s advocacy, the full report is available at: https://bit.ly/BantayBilangguan.