THE COMMISSION on Human Rights asked the government to thoroughly investigate the arrest of Sasah Sta. Rosa, spokesperson of Jovenes Anakbayan and chairperson of Anakbayan Naga City.

CHR Spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia said the government must assure that due process and the rule of law are in order following the arrest of Sta. Rosa last month.

“Given doubts on what transpired during that operation, we urge the government to investigate such accusations. We remind the government, particularly the police, that securing a community includes guaranteeing everyone’s safety from allegations of weaponizing the law and legal processes, as well as arbitrary arrests,” De Guia said.

At the same time, De Guia urged the government to guarantee protected freedoms in the Constitution including the right to organize, express dissent, free speech and expression, and demand redress for grievances for the betterment of the welfare of the people.

“In this regard, CHR shall be exercising its mandate to pursue an independent investigation through CHR Region V. We shall be open to both sides,” she said.

Sta. Rosa was arrested by at least 10 state forces in her home in Villa Obiedo, Cararayan, Naga City, Camarines Sur on allegations of possession of loose firearms and improvised device materials.

However, several groups claimed state forces ordered Sta. Rosa’s family to go outside so they can search the entire house and plant evidences.