CHR cautions against release of ‘narco-list’ ahead of polls
MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights reminded Philippine authorities that presumption of innocence is a constitutionally-guaranteed right amid plan to release a list of politicians supposedly involved in the illegal drugs trade ahead of the May midterm elections.
In a statement Sunday, CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said the agency recognizes that the list is meant to ensure that only deserving, law-abiding candidates get elected in the government.
But she stressed that presumption of innocence is a right guaranteed under the Constitution.
“If there is enough evidence for the government to put names in a supposed narco-list, then the just way to proceed is to file charges against these personalities to make them accountable before our laws,” De Guia said.
The CHR spokesperson added: “The last thing that we want to happen is to heighten violence because of the release of such list in an, oftentimes, already violent period triggered by the election season.”
Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said the list would be released before the start of the campaign period for local bets.
Last month, President Rodrigo Duterte said he is open to the proposal to release the narco-list to guide voters in the midterm elections.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Director General Aaron Aquino earlier expressed apprehension over releasing the list, citing legal obstacles following the release of barangay drug list last year.
- Latest
- Trending
