By Leilani S. Junio
MANILA, (PNA) – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and the Regional Human Rights Commission (RHRC) in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) signed Thursday a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to boost protection of human rights in the autonomous region.
The signing held at the CHR central office in SAAC Bldg., Diliman, Quezon City, aims to ensure peace and strengthen the protection of human rights in the ARMM.
CHR chairperson Loretta Ann Rosales and RHRC chairman Algamar Latiph led the MOA signing.
The other signatories include Commissioner Galuasch C. Ballaho, Commissioner; Alikhan O. Abuat, ARMM Regional Human Rights Commissioner; and Commissioner Jose Manuel S. Mamauag of CHR.
RHRC, a statutory governmental agency within ARMM, records violations of human rights in predominantly Muslim provinces like Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
“The signing will allow us (CHR and RHRC) to combine forces in protecting and promoting human rights of all persons in ARMM, and in addressing violations of human rights of people in its provinces,” Rosales said.
On the part of RHRC, Latiph described the partnership as mutual, coordinative and complementary relationship.
“The partnership will provide sharing of knowledge and technology training as well. If there are some issues that need advice and expertise of CHR, we can now easily coordinate with its regional offices for assistance that will be compliant to International Human Rights Law,” said Latiph.
Under the partnership upholding and implementing the Anti-Torture Act of 2009, Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and Other Crimes Against Humanity, Philippine Magna Carta of Women, Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act of 2012 and other humanitarian laws are expected to be given emphasis.
ARMM is an autonomous government and its regional capital is Cotabato City although this city is outside of its jurisdiction.
It is comprise of provinces that are former parts of Region IX, XI, and XII.