House OKs extension of filing of HR victims’ compensation claims

MANILA, Philippines - The House of Representatives has passed on second reading a joint resolution of Congress to extend by six months the period for human rights (HR) victims during martial law to file their claims for recognition and compensation.

Principally authored by Akbayan Representatives Barry Gutierrez and Walden Bello, Joint Resolution No. 16 seeks to lengthen the filing period to accommodate the large number of alleged human rights victims seeking reparation and recognition under Republic Act No. 10368.

Under the law, the filing deadline is Nov. 10, 2014.

Gutierrez said it is important that legitimate victims be recognized and compensated so that “they take their rightful place in our history.”

“The six-month extension was sought to allow the legitimate claimants, especially those living in far-flung areas of the country, full opportunity to file their claims with the Human Rights Victims Claims Board (HRVCB),” he said.

He said as of October 2014, the board has received more than 29,000 claims under the law, while the expected number of claimants is between 55,000 and 90,000.

“With the November 10 deadline fast approaching, it is evident that the set time frame needs to be expanded to ensure that all victims will be given their proper recognition and compensation, and no victim will be unduly cut off from their rightful claims, “ he added.

“We are happy, therefore, that the leadership of the House lent its full support leading to the swift approval of the measure. This is a clear signal that Congress is serious in its commitment to seeing justice served to the thousands of victims of martial law,” he stressed.

The authors and supporters of the joint resolution expect the House and the Senate to approve it before Congress goes on its three-week Halloween recess next weekend.

The resolution will have the effect of amending RA 10368, titled “An Act providing for reparation and recognition of victims of human rights violations during the Marcos regime, appropriating funds therefore, and for other purposes.”

The law sets aside P10 billion for compensation for HR victims, some of whom are incumbent and former lawmakers.

Meanwhile, the Samahan ng mga Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon at Aresto or SELDA yesterday said they welcome the extension of application for reparation and recognition by human rights victims during martial law. – With Rhodina Villanueva