by Gilda Francesca G. Flores
San Beda College of Law-Human Rights Advocates commenced their week-long celebration of International Human Rights Day today, December 17.
In the first of their series of webinars titled “Suri’t Tindig: Headlines on Human Rights and Where to Stand,” the program “Three Truths, Zero Lies” tackled the nation’s three most pressing issues, namely the Philippines’ current coronavirus (COVID-19) response, Martial Law atrocities and historical revisionism, and the dangers brought about by red-tagging, including the human rights violations it has caused.
National Chairperson for Akbayan Youth Dr. RJ Naguit discussed the Philippines’ current situation in battling COVID-19 and how disinformation has and continues to affect the delivery of medical services.
He added some possible policy recommendations for medical workers, public health and community-oriented COVID-19 responses, and the local health industry.
Atty. Ross Tugade, who was a part of national human rights mechanisms Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board and Commission of Human Rights of the Philippines also elaborated the historical and legal facts found in Marcosian History and how these facts continue to affect us in the present time.
Meanwhile, Atty. Edre Olalia, the incumbent President of the National Union of People’s Lawyers, gave an overview of general concepts which are relevant to red-tagging and how these should be construed. He mentioned the domestic remedies available here in the Philippines which may be sought in cases of human rights violations.
Suri’t Tindig is set to run from December 17 to 20.
In the succeeding dates, topics such as international human rights enforcement mechanisms and voter’s education will be tackled by well-renowned speakers selected by the organization.
Photos by Jordan N. Chavez
THE BARRISTER 