The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday expressed concern over the commotion that took place between the police and protesters on the CHR grounds during the proclamation of the newly elected president and vice president of the Philippines.
According to the protesters, they were water cannoned and were on the receiving end of "unnecessary force" that resulted in injuries.
The National Capital Region Police Office, however, claimed the use of water cannon was because the protesters tried to advance towards Batasang Pambansa, where the proclamation was taking place.
It stressed that the police did not retaliate against the rallyists, but their broken shields might have caused injury to some who made contact with it.
In a statement, CHR executive director Jacqueline de Guia said the commission is "very alarmed" by the PNP's means of dispersal.
"The Commission on Human Rights is very alarmed by the method of dispersal employed by the police during the protest held by progressive groups on the CHR grounds on 25 May 2022," said de Guia.
"We strongly remind the Philippine National Police (PNP) against the use of water cannons and the carrying of firearms during a non-violent protest in line with the prohibitions outlined in Batas Pambansa 880 (BP 880)."
According to the CHR, police officers are "expected to exercise maximum tolerance."
"This policy requires the avoidance of the use of force and to restrict it to the minimum extent necessary, especially when handling non-violent protests," de Guia said.
Following the incident, the CHR deployed its lawyers and investigators at the scene to explain BP 880 to the police officers and held talks with the leaders of the rallyists.
The CHR reminded protesters of their responsibility to comply with the requirements of BP 880, according to de Guia. This includes the necessity of a permit "when holding a protest in a public place, to enable the conduct of peaceful assembly."
De Guia then said the CHR is investigating the incident to ensure that oversteps from the authorities are accounted for, adding that it is communicated with the Philippine National Police regarding its findings and recommendations.
"CHR reiterates the importance of the right to peaceful assembly as part of a functioning democracy. We hope that the incoming administration will cultivate an environment conducive to peaceful assembly," said de Guia.
"We continue to underscore our independence in monitoring the actions of all parties concerned and in ensuring that fundamental rights are duly protected."
