Manila: The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday stated that the nature of human rights complaints in the Philippines has transitioned from civil and political violations to social and economic concerns, indicating an evolving understanding of human rights among Filipinos.
According to Philippines News Agency, this shift was highlighted during the Senate Committee on Finance hearing regarding the CHR’s proposed 2026 budget. CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc noted that while the total number of complaints has remained relatively stable since 2023, the types of violations reported have changed significantly.
Palpal-latoc explained that cases related to civil and political rights, such as extrajudicial killings and arbitrary arrests, have decreased. In contrast, there has been an increase in complaints concerning economic, social, and cultural rights, including issues related to gender-based violence, education, food, health, and the welfare of women, children, and the elderly.
CHR Commissioner Ma. Amifaith Fider-Reyes added that this development is in line with the country’s efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include objectives like zero hunger, universal health coverage, and quality education.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who presided over the hearing, acknowledged the expansion of the CHR’s mandate to address both traditional and emerging human rights issues. He noted that public perception of human rights is evolving, reflecting broader and more diverse demands from constituents.
Additionally, during the hearing, Gatchalian praised the CHR for its effective case management, pointing out that the number of pending complaints has dramatically decreased from 28,000 to 3,438 in just 18 months, highlighting the commission’s efficiency in resolving cases.