The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) issued a firm reminder to law enforcement on Wednesday, calling for the strict adherence to legal and ethical standards in the implementation of the government’s Safer Cities Initiative.
While the CHR expressed support for the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) goal of curbing criminality, it emphasized that public order should never come at the expense of fundamental liberties.
“We welcome the DILG’s ongoing efforts to refine implementation by promoting clearer guidance, consistency in enforcement, and alignment with rights-based policing. Addressing criminality, illegal drugs, and threats to public order is essential to safeguarding public welfare,” the CHR stated.
Launched on April 6, the Safer Cities Initiative intensifies the monitoring of “ordinance violations” traditionally linked to street-level crimes. This includes crackdowns on public drinking, shirtless loitering, late-night karaoke, and the enforcement of curfews for minors.
The Commission underscored that the effectiveness of these measures relies on the integrity of their execution.
“These efforts, however, must at all times be carried out in full compliance with human rights standards and the rule of law,” the commission added.
By advocating for “rights-based policing,” the CHR hopes to ensure that the drive for more secure streets does not lead to abuses or the inconsistent application of local laws.