CHR launches Bantay Bilangguan advocacy campaign to push for establishment of National Preventive Mechanism

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) proudly launches its newest advocacy initiative — the Bantay Bilangguan campaign, anchored on the commitment to uphold the dignity and rights of all Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs).

This campaign aims to build public, institutional, and multi-sectoral support toward the urgent passage of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) Bill, in line with the Philippines’ obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (Opcat). It also aims to strengthen the CHR’s role in preventing torture and protecting human rights in places of deprivation of liberty, while contributing to the national aspiration of a torture-free and rights-respecting Philippines.

The official launch of the Bantay Bilangguan advocacy campaign is set for  July 18, 2025, at the CHR Central Office in Quezon City, marking a significant step forward in advocating for systemic reforms in detention practices, prison conditions, and accountability mechanisms across the country.

National preventive mechanism

Systemic problems require systemic solutions. CHR strongly advocates for the establishment of a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) — an independent body that prevents torture and other abuses in detention through regular, unannounced or announced visits, issuing evidence-based recommendations, building the capacity of duty bearers, and conducting constructive dialogue with relevant agencies.

CHR reaffirms that torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment is a grave abuse of power that can never be justified. While the Philippines ratified Opcat on April 17, 2012, it has yet to establish its NPM, unlike the 94 other state parties. This 13-year delay emphasizes the urgency of upholding the rights of PDLs and promoting accountability within detention systems.

CHR has also issued multiple press releases from 2022 to present, condemning jail congestion, reports of continuing torture and CIDTP, and the alleged strip searches of visitors, particularly those linked to political prisoners.

Institutional reforms

The Commission also acknowledges the reforms implemented by various institutions to address the concerns of PDLs. These include the establishment of the Bilibid Extension School and the resumption of in-person classes at the Manila City Jail. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology has also requested increased food and medical allowances for PDLs, especially as health-related concerns remain a major issue. The Department of Justice committed to conducting forensic autopsies on PDLs and issued a circular in 2023 to lower bail bonds for indigent PDLs. The Supreme Court has also allowed videoconferencing for legal aid cases. To strengthen and carry forward these initiatives, CHR asserts that the establishment of the National Preventive Mechanism must be prioritized.

As the country’s independent national human rights institution, CHR remains steadfast in its Constitutional mandate to protect the rights of all individuals, including those in conflict with the law. True rehabilitation and justice can only be achieved through a commitment to human dignity, fairness, and the rule of law.

To access the full report, you may refer to this link: https://bit.ly/BantayBilangguan