Commission on Human Rights and Public Attorney’s Office Collaborate for Free Legal Assistance
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Manila, Philippines, is actively seeking a partnership with the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) to provide free legal assistance to persons deprived of liberty (PDLS). This collaborative effort aims to ensure that marginalized and vulnerable sectors of society have access to the necessary legal support they require.
During a recent visit to PAO Chief Persida Rueda-Acosta, CHR Commissioner Faydah Maniri-Dumarpa, along with other commission officers, discussed the possibility of signing a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to solidify this partnership. The CHR is mandated to investigate civil and political rights violations against marginalized groups, including PDLS, and is committed to delivering prompt, responsive, accessible, and excellent public service in accordance with universal human rights principles and standards.
Commissioner Maniri-Dumarpa highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This is one big reason why we paid a visit to PAO and the Chief Public Attorney. We sought to forge a memorandum of agreement to formalize the partnership between the two government agencies that both serve the marginalized sectors and ensure more efficient referral mechanisms.”
Recognizing the need for collaboration, the CHR had previously reached out to PAO through a letter, expressing their interest in identifying areas of cooperation. Many PDLS had already approached the CHR, requesting assistance from PAO in their cases. The CHR has endorsed several requests from PDLS to the PAO, emphasizing the significance of this partnership.
This collaboration follows a similar agreement between the Philippine Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) and PAO, further highlighting the importance of providing free legal services to PDLS.
In an interview with The Manila Times, PAO Chief Persida Rueda-Acosta expressed her appreciation for the CHR’s initiative and willingness to collaborate. She mentioned that PAO has been extending free legal services to PDLS, including court representation. Additionally, PAO plays a crucial role in determining the eligibility of individuals who have served their sentences, recommending parole or release based on their conduct and the award of conduct time allowance.
Ensuring Access to Justice for Persons Deprived of Liberty
The collaboration between the CHR and PAO holds significant importance in ensuring that PDLS have access to legal assistance and representation. PDLS are individuals who have been deprived of their liberty due to various circumstances, such as being under arrest, detained, or incarcerated.
The CHR, as a human rights commission, has the responsibility to investigate civil and political rights violations. This includes monitoring the conditions of PDLS and advocating for their rights. By partnering with PAO, which provides free legal services, the CHR aims to bridge the gap between PDLS and the legal support they require.
Access to justice is a fundamental right for all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status or circumstances. However, PDLS often face significant challenges in accessing legal assistance due to financial constraints or lack of knowledge about their rights. This collaboration seeks to address these barriers and ensure that PDLS receive the necessary legal support to navigate the justice system effectively.
The MOA between the CHR and PAO will establish a formalized partnership, enabling a more streamlined and efficient referral process. PDLS who approach the CHR seeking legal assistance will be referred to PAO, where they can benefit from the expertise of PAO lawyers and avail themselves of free legal services. This collaboration will not only enhance the provision of legal aid but also contribute to the overall protection and promotion of human rights for PDLS.
Expanding Partnerships for Social Justice
The collaboration between the CHR and PAO is part of a broader effort to strengthen partnerships between government agencies and organizations working towards social justice. The PCUP and PAO have already forged a similar agreement, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing the needs of marginalized sectors.
By joining forces, these agencies can leverage their respective expertise and resources to provide comprehensive support to PDLS. PAO’s experience in providing legal representation and assistance, combined with CHR’s mandate to protect human rights, creates a powerful synergy that can lead to meaningful change in the lives of PDLS.
Moreover, this collaboration also serves as an opportunity for the CHR and PAO to exchange knowledge and best practices. By learning from each other’s experiences, they can enhance their respective approaches to addressing the legal needs of PDLS. This knowledge-sharing aspect of the partnership ensures continuous improvement and innovation in the delivery of legal services.
Conclusion
The collaboration between the Commission on Human Rights and the Public Attorney’s Office in Manila, Philippines, represents a significant step towards ensuring access to justice for persons deprived of liberty. By formalizing their partnership through a memorandum of agreement, these government agencies aim to provide free legal assistance to marginalized sectors, particularly PDLS.
This collaboration not only strengthens the referral mechanisms between the CHR and PAO but also enhances the overall protection and promotion of human rights. By working together, these agencies can address the legal needs of PDLS more effectively, ensuring that they receive the necessary support and representation.
Furthermore, this partnership sets a positive example for other government agencies and organizations to prioritize the rights and well-being of marginalized sectors. By fostering collaborations and sharing knowledge, we can collectively work towards a more just and inclusive society, where access to justice is a reality for all.
Source: The Manila Times
