Yesterday, the Baguio Human Rights Defenders Ordinance (HRDO) was approved after its third and final reading in the Baguio City Council. The ordinance is the culmination of persistent lobbying by human rights defenders and organizations. It was introduced by Baguio City Councilors Hon. Peter Fianza, Hon. Jose Molintas, Hon. Fred Bagbagen, and Hon. Arthur Allad-iw.
The ordinance includes key provisions aimed at safeguarding basic human rights, protecting human rights defenders, and penalizing red-tagging by state actors. It institutionalizes not only the protection of human rights but also the defense of those who advocate for them.
“The Baguio HRDO is a significant milestone for the city in protecting human rights. Ensuring the protection of human rights defenders and holding accountable those who violate these rights is a crucial step toward fostering a safe and inclusive environment for advocacy and social justice. Now, we must ensure that this ordinance is fully implemented and enforced,” said Gabriel Siscar, 4th Nominee of Kabataan Partylist.
Since 2018, organizations such as the Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA), Tongtongan ti Umili (TTU), Youth Act Now Against Tyranny (YANAT), and Kabataan Partylist Cordillera have advocated for an ordinance protecting human rights defenders. From the proposed Anti-Political Vilification Ordinance to the newly passed HRDO, these groups have worked tirelessly to combat red-tagging, harassment, and violence in the region.
“Without the collective effort of the people, measures to ensure the protection of our human rights would not exist. We deeply appreciate the support for this ordinance—from the citizens of Baguio to the members of the Baguio City Council,” said Gabriel Siscar.
The ordinance aligns with today’s celebration of the 76th International Human Rights Day. This year’s celebration in Baguio City underscores the ongoing struggle of its citizens for human rights and the implementation of policies to protect them. Just a year ago, the city passed a resolution declaring Baguio an inclusive human rights city. Part of this year’s celebration is a call for the city government to concretize this resolution through actionable measures.
As human rights violations—such as red-tagging, harassment, trumped-up charges, and false terrorist designations—persist, it is vital for institutions to establish strong mechanisms for protection and justice. The passage of the Baguio HRDO is a significant step forward. Now, we look toward larger and broader victories for human rights.
