Photo credit: Senate PH

In a heated Senate session on Tuesday, the discussion on the budget for the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) was deferred after Senator Alan Peter Cayetano raised concerns about the CHR Executive Director's stance on abortion.

During the debate, Cayetano expressed disappointment over CHR Executive Director Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia's earlier statement advocating for the decriminalization of abortion.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada clarified that the statement was made by the previous commission and the current one under Chairperson Richard Paat Palpal-latoc has not taken a stand on the issue.

Cayetano emphasized the sensitivity of the matter, stating that the CHR should be mindful of representing the Philippines. He drew a parallel with ambassadors, questioning if they can express opinions differing from their state's position.

Highlighting the constitutional perspective, Cayetano cited Article 2 Section 12, emphasizing the sanctity of family life and the protection of both the mother and the unborn child from conception.

In response, de Guia defended her stance, focusing on the decriminalization of abortion in specific situations. Cayetano, however, criticized this as a "weak excuse," asserting that without penalties, protecting the unborn becomes challenging.

Cayetano called on CHR officials for a clear position on the Constitution, urging them to align with its principles or step down if advocating for pro-abortion views.