House Human Rights Committee Chair Benny Abante warned officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) that they would be held in contempt if they did not stop taking photos of the families of victims of alleged extrajudicial killings who had been invited to Congress’ ongoing hearings on the conduct of the drug war under the previous administration.
Abante told representatives of the PNP to respect the Committee as he expressed dismay upon learning that PNP personnel at the hearing were taking photos of the families of the victims.
“Meron tayo dyan mga biktima sa labas. And I was told that there are some police people who are taking pictures [of] them,” the veteran legislator said.
“I do not want anyone taking pictures of anybody, if you are not a member of the media.”
The seasoned lawmaker added that “if they (police) do not want to be held in contempt… I do not want anyone taking pictures of anybody, if you are not a member of the media.”
“I am prohibiting any police officers from taking pictures of these victims. Respect this Committee,” he stressed.
Abante directed the Committee to provide a holding room for the victims and their families, who recently testified in a hearing exclusively for them.
He had earlier given assurances that the Committee would take steps to ensure the safety and security of victims and their families after they initially expressed fears about testifying before Congress.
“I fully acknowledge the fears and the reluctance that many may feel about coming forward to testify.”
Abante told victims that he “fully acknowledges the fears and the reluctance that many may feel about coming forward to testify. These fears are real, they have basis.”
He assured them, however, that the House HR panel “is steadfast in its commitment to the protection of our witnesses.”
“The House of Representatives is here to support you, to safeguard your rights, and to ensure your safety,” Abante concluded.
