Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No. _1433

Introduced by Representative LEILA M. DE LIMA

AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS OF THE
PHILIPPINES AS THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTION, AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES

EXPLANATORY NOTE

It is a declared policy of the State to promote, protect and uphold human rights
as mandated by Article XIII, Section 1 of the Constitution, which reads:

Section 1. The Congress shall give highest priority to the enactment of the
measures that protect and enhance the right of all the people to human
dignity, reduce social, economic, and political inequalities, and remove
cultural inequities by equitably diffusing wealth and political power for the
common good.

Harmonious to this State Policy, the 1987 Constitution established the
Commission on Human Rights (CHR), later enacted into law by virtue of Executive
Order No. 163, with the mandate to promote and protect human rights of all Filipinos,
including those overseas. Specific powers and functions of the CHR are set forth in
Article XVIII on Social Justice and Human Rights. These include the core functions of
investigation, monitoring, and education.

As a constitutional creation, the CHR is the national human rights institution
(NHRI) of the Philippines. As such, it performs the important role of linking human
rights norms, international in character, to the level of domestic implementation.
Through its advisory function as NHRI, as outlined in the United Nations Principles on
the Status of National Human Rights Institution, it can issue recommendations and
guidelines on the implementation of commitments of the Philippines in treaties it has
ratified, including their Optional Protocols. For example, the Philippines is State Party
to the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination

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Against Women (CEDAW). This treaty provides for the equal application of all human
rights to women and identifies the measures by which it shall be complied. The CHR
has developed Advisories on various issues and thematic concerns covered by the
CEDAW, and these include the passage of then Reproductive Health Bill, including
the wearing of Hijab’ which was lauded by both the Philippine Commission on Women?
and the Department of Foreign Affairs for addressing deeply entrenched religious
prejudices in society.

The CHR has consistently worked towards the better understanding of UN
Special Procedures and the importance of Optional Protocols. in 2012, the CHR has
participated in the Country Inquiry of the Committee on the Elimination of
Discrimination Against Women on Manila's EO No. 003. It has also engaged with the
Special Rapporteur on Trafficking Against Persons, presenting its work with the
Southeast Asia NHRI Forum.

Over the years, the CHR has proven its exemplary work as a cornerstone of
human rights in the country. This has been affirmed by the Supreme Court itself in
Edita T. Burgos v. Gen. Hemogenes Esperon et.al., whereby the Court expressly
commended the efforts of CHR in the investigation of the disappearance of Jonas
Joseph Burgos. The ruling provides, “[iJn the present case, while Jonas remains
missing, the series of calculated directives issued by the Court outlined above and the
extraordinary diligence the CHR demonstrated in its investigations resulted in the
criminal prosecution of Lt. Baliaga. x x x."> The CHR has also made submissions in
cases pertaining to discrimination of sectoral minorities as for example, individuals
with diverse sexual orientation and gender identity. Recently, it has also made
submissions on the issue of citizenship of foundlings, underscoring the best interest
of the child principle of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

In addition to the Constitution and E.0. No. 163, various laws were later
enacted granting additional special mandates to the CHR. Currently, there are twelve
(12) such laws‘. Foremost of these are R.A. No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women
Act of 2009 which delegates to CHR the powers of Gender and Development Ombud,

* CHR Advisory number 2013-002 (8 August 2013). Retrieved from https://cdn1 chr. gov. phiwp-
content/uploads/20 18/0 1/08174741/HRA-CHR-A2013-002-On-the-Wearing-of-Headscarves. pdf.
2 Philippine Commission on Women (16 September 2013). Retrieved from https://pew.gov. ph/muslim-
women-are-now-free-to-wear-hijabs-in-schools-govt-institutions-chr.
3 Burgos vs Esperon, et al., G.R. Nos. 178497, 183711, 183712, 183713, 4 February 2014. Retrieved
from https://lawphil.nevjudjuris/juri2014/feb2014/gr_178497_2014.html
4 Republic Act No. 9710, Magna Carta of Women; Republic Act No. 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and
Welfare Act of 2006; Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children
‘Act of 2004; Republic Act No. 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003; Republic Act No.
‘9745 or the Anti-torture Act of 2009; Republic Act No. 9372 or the Human Security Act of 2007;
Republic Act No. 9851 or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law,
Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity; Republic Act No. 10368, or the Human Rights
Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013; Republic Act No. 11036, or the Mental Health Act;
Republic Act No. 11188, or the Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act,
Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Law; Republic Act No. 11479, or the Anti-Terrorism Act.

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and R.A. No. 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 which names the
CHR as Child Ombudsman.

The work and accomplishments of the CHR, thus far, cannot be fully presented
in this explanatory note. With almost forty (40) years in existence, the CHR has served
countless Filipinos through its programs and services. Notwithstanding these
accomplishments, the CHR also has to occasionally address institutional challenges
in terms of resources and extent of its mandate.

It is worth nothing that the need to strengthen the CHR is often raised in
important forums, domestic and overseas. In its consideration of the 2016 Philippine
State Report, the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
made the following recommendation for the CHR, viz.: “t]he Committee urges the
State party to expedite the discussion and adoption of the Commission on Human
Rights Charter (Senate Bill No. 2818 for an Act Strengthening the Functional and
Structural Organization of the Commission on Human Rights and for Other Purposes)
to ensure full compliance with the Paris Principles on national institutions for the
promotion and protection of human rights.”°

In recent proceedings, other UN bodies have also spoken on the need to
strengthen the CHR as an organization. In its 2014 Report on the 2012 country Inquiry
of the Philippines regarding Executive Order No. 003 on Family Planning by then
Manila City Mayor Lito Atienza, the Committee on Elimination of All Forms of
Discrimination Against Women, made the recommendation for the CHR, viz.: _
rovide the Commission with adequate financial, human and technical resources to
ensure that it can effectively discharge its current and additional functions; and take
all necessary measures to ensure its full financial autonomy.”* Likewise, the UN
Committee on the Rights of the Child, in its review of the Philippines’ 3° and 4!”
combined reports, included the following recommendation in its Concluding
Observations, viz.: “The Committee also recommends that the State party support the
prompt passing of the CHRP Charter that is awaiting approval by Congress to
strengthen the protection and promotion of children’s rights." Finally, in the last
Universal Periodic Review of the UN Human Rights Council for the 2"? cycle reporting
of the Philippines, the following recommendations were made by foreign governments
viz.: “Further consolidate its national human rights infrastructure, including support to
the Commission on Human Rights (Egypt); Continue to improve its capacity to uphold
human rights, including by increasing the Commission on Human Rights’ (CHR) fiscal

5 United Nations (26 October 2016). E/C. 12/PHL/COVS-6. Retrieved from
http://tbinternet.ohchr.org/_layouts/treatybodyexternal/Download.aspx?symbolno=E%2{C. 12%2fPHL
%24CO%25-6&Lang=
© United Nations (August 2014). CEDAWIC/OP.8/PHL/1. Retrieved from
http:/Awww.chchr.org/Documents/issues/Women/WRGS/Philippines_inquiry.pdf.
” United Nations (22 October 2009). CRC/C/PHLICO/3-4. Retrieved from
httpvwww.bayefsky.com//pdfiphilippines_t4_crc_52.pdf.

3



autonomy and organizational capacity, as well as further efforts to prevent human
rights violations by Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippines National Police
personnel (Australia); Continue the work to build-up the capacity in the area of human
rights protection, including through strengthening the national human rights institution
(Russian Federation); Intensify the efforts and measures to consolidate the state of
law and its national mechanisms on human rights (Viet Nam)”.®

To empower the CHR as an institution through a Charter will therefore not only
reinforce the recommendations and recognition of its contribution to safeguard
fundamental rights and freedom but will serve the higher purpose of institutionalization
of treaty commitments by the Philippine government.

It is not uncommon that popular opinion may not fully appreciate the status of
the CHR as the highest government machinery in the protection of human rights. The
CHR is a partner of security forces in human rights education, the legislative
department in rights-based approach to law-making, the judiciary in evolving breaches
of human security through enforced disappearance, and intermediary between
government and civil society. The CHR Charter will help bridge the disconnect
between the unpopular opinion against human rights defenders and the importance of
the role the CHR plays in our modern society.

The necessity of the CHR Charter cannot be understated in light of ongoing
threats to the protection of human rights in the country in the form of blatant violations
such as extrajudicial killings (EJKs) and the lack of mechanisms and programs that
protect social and economic rights. In the 17th Congress, a similar bill (SBN-1230)
was filed by my former office in the Senate.

This bill seeks to address the same legislative gaps the previous Senate bill
sought to address to ensure the institutionalized safeguarding of human rights in the

country.

In view of the foregoing, early approval of this measure is earnestly sought.

hele hefner

® United Nations (9 July 2012). AIHRC/21/12. Retrieved from
https://documents.un.org/dociundocigen/g12/151/22/pdtig1215122. pat.
4


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No,_1433

Introduced by Representative LEILA M. DE LIMA

AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS OF THE
PHILIPPINES AS THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTION, AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in
Congress Assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. — This Act shall be known as the "Commission on
Human Rights Act of 2025.”

SEC. 2. State Policy on Human Rights. - The State values the dignity of every
human person and guarantees full respect for human rights without distinction of any
kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national
or social origin, property, birth or other status.

SEC. 3. Definition of Human Rights. — Human rights are the supreme, inherent,
and inalienable rights to life, dignity, and self- development. It is the essence of these
rights that makes a person human. These rights include those guaranteed and
recognized by the Philippine Constitution, other domestic laws and international
instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and treaties to which
the Philippines is a state party.

TITLE |. NATURE OF THE COMMISSION

SEC. 4. The Commission as an Independent Office. - The Commission on
Human Rights is an independent constitutional body. It is the national human rights
institution of the Philippines in accordance with the United Nations Principles Relating
to the Status of National Institutions ("The Paris Principles") and other United Nations’


Resolutions and Instruments pertaining to the effective functioning of national human
rights institutions.

SEC. 5. The Commission shall enjoy full fiscal autonomy and its approved
annual appropriations of the Commission shall be automatically and regularly
released.

A. CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS

SEC. 6. The Commission, Composition, and Qualifications. - The Commission
shall be a collegial body composed of a Chairperson and four (4) Commissioners who
shall possess the following qualifications:

a. Must be natural-born citizens of the Philippines;

b. Must be at least thirty-five (35) years of age at the time of their appointment,
with proven integrity and competence;

c. Must have a deep and comprehensive understanding and knowledge of, as
well as practical experience, on human rights protection, promotion and
advocacy;

d. Majority of whom must be members of the Philippine Bar, who have been
engaged in the practice of law for at least ten (10) years;

e. Must not have been a candidate, including as party-list nominee, for any
elective position in any national or local election, except barangay elections,
immediately preceding his or her appointment;

f. For non-lawyers, must have at least ten (10) years of professional
experience in human rights; and

g. Composition must observe equal gender balance and sectoral
representation

SEC. 7. Application, Nomination, Appointment and Term of Office. — The
Chairperson and Commissioners shall be appointed by the President for a term of
seven (7) years without re-appointment. Appointees shall be chosen either from the
list of shortlisted candidates who either applied for the position or nominated by at
least two (2) civil society organizations comprised solely of Filipinos. Shortlisting shall
be undertaken through the process of assessment of qualifications and public
interview.


Of those first appointed under this Act, the Chairperson shall hold office for
seven (7) years, two (2) Commissioners for five (5) years and the other two (2)
Commissioners for three (3) years. The term of the Chairperson and Commissioners
of the Commission shall start on the day immediately after the end of the previous
term, regardless of the date of appointment. In no case shall any Chairperson or
Commissioner be appointed, re-appointed, or designated in a temporary or acting
capacity. Appointment to any vacancy occurring during the term shall be only for the
remaining portion of said term

SEC. 8. Removal From Office. - The Chairperson and Members of the
Commission may be removed from office on any of the following grounds:

a. Disloyalty to the Republic of the Philippines;
b. Culpable violation of the Constitution;

c. Bribery or graft and corruption, other high crimes, or betrayal of public trust;
d. Dishonesty, misconduct in office, gross negligence, or dereliction of duty;

e. Commission of any offense involving moral turpitude or an offense
punishable by imprisonment of more than 6 years;

f. Abuse of governmental authority; and

g. Acts that constitute gender-based discrimination, violence against women,
including sexual harassment irrespective of sexual orientation and gender
identity of the Commission official or that of his or her victim.

The proceedings for removal shall be initiated by filing a verified complaint with
the Office of the Ombudsman stating the grounds therefor and alleging the ultimate
facts upon which the complaint is based. If the Office of the Ombudsman finds the
complaint sufficient in form and substance, it shall file a petition for removal from office
before the Sandiganbayan

The Sandiganbayan shall have original and exclusive jurisdiction over petitions
for removal from office for the members of the Commission.

SEC. 9. Prohibition and Disqualification. - The Chairperson and
Commissioners of the Commission shall not, during their tenure, hold any other office
or employment.

Neither shall they engage in the practice of any profession or in the active
management or control of any business, which in any way may be affected by the

3


functions of their office, nor shall they be financially interested, directly or indirectly, in
any contract with, or in any franchise or privilege, granted by the Government and its
subdivisions, agencies, or instrumentalities, including government-owned or controlled
corporations or their subsidiaries. They shall avoid conflict of interest in the conduct of
their office.

No spouse, common-law partner, or relative by consanguinity or affinity within
the fourth civil degree, and no business or professional partner of the Chairperson or
Commissioners, may appear as counsel or agent, on any matter pending before the
Commission or to transact business directly or indirectly therewith.

This disqualification shall apply during the tenure of the official concerned.

SEC. 10. Salary, Retirement, and Other Privileges of the Chairperson and
Members. - The Chairperson and Members of the Commission shail receive the same
salary, privileges, and benefits as the Chairperson and Members of the Constitutional
Commissions, which shall not be decreased during their term of office. Likewise, they
shail receive the same retirement benefits as those of the Constitutional Commissions
as provided by law.

In case of death of a retired Chairperson or Commissioner, the surviving
legitimate spouse, unless disqualified by law, shall be entitled to receive, on a monthly
basis, all the retirement benefits that the said deceased retiree was receiving at the
time of his/her demise under the provisions of applicable retirement laws.

The said surviving legitimate spouse shall continue to receive such retirement
benefits during his/her lifetime or until he/she remarries. Provided, that if the surviving
legitimate spouse is receiving benefits under existing retirement laws, he/she shall
only be entitled to the difference between the amount provided for under this Act and
the benefits he/she is receiving.

In case of unmarried retirees, the legal heirs shall be those recognized under
the New Civil Code.

TITLE Il. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS
A. GENERAL POWERS AND FUNCTIONS

SEC. 11. General Powers and Functions of the Commission. - The
Commission shall have the following general powers and functions:

a. Investigate, on its own or on complaint by any party, all forms of human
rights violations;


. Adopt its operational guidelines and rules of procedure and cite for contempt

for violations thereof or its lawful orders in accordance with the Rules of
Court;

. Provide appropriate legal and preventive measures for the protection of

human rights of all persons within the Philippines, especially the
underprivileged, as well as Filipinos residing abroad;

|. Exercise unhampered and unrestrained visitorial powers anytime of the day

or night over jails, prisons, camps, detention facilities, safe houses, and
similar premises;

Establish a continuing program of research, education, and information to
enhance respect for the primacy of human rights;

Recommend to Congress legislative measures to promote and protect
human rights and to provide for remedies to victims of violations of human
rights or their families;

Monitor the Philippine government's compliance with international treaty
obligations on human rights and prepare periodic reports to treaty bodies;

. Grant immunity from prosecution to any person whose testimony or

possession of documents or other evidence is necessary or convenient to
determine the truth in any investigation conducted by it or under its authority;

Require the assistance of any department, bureau, office, or agency in the
performance of its functions;

Establish working relationships with civil society organizations, non-
government organizations, and people's organizations involved in human
rights promotion, protection, and advocacy;

. Perform its Gender and Child Ombud roles as well as to ensure that the

status, rights, and interests of the marginalized and vulnerable sectors, are
upheld in accordance with the Constitution, laws, and international
instruments on human rights;

Issue human rights directives, observations, and advisories directed to all
concerned agencies of government for their implementation;

. Appoint its officers and employees in accordance with law; and

|. Perform such other duties and functions as may be provided by law.

5


B. CHR PROTECTION FUNCTIONS

SEC. 12. Scope of CHR Protection Functions. - The CHR Protection Functions

shail consist of the following:

a. Investigation of Human Rights Violations;
b. Legal and Preventive Measures;

c. Visitation Function;

d. National Preventive Mechanism; and

e. Witness Protection.

SEC. 13. Investigative Powers and Functions. - The Commission shall exercise

primary and original jurisdiction to investigate, upon complaint or on its own, cases of
human rights violations involving civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

In the exercise of its investigative function, the Commission shall have the
following powers:

a. Act promptly on reports or complaints, filed in any form, by any
person/organization. Findings of human rights violations shall include
recommendations for appropriate remedies, and referral to proper
government agencies for the filing of administrative, criminal, or civil actions.
The recommendations may include proposals for legislative, administrative,
and judicial reforms.

The investigation and other proceedings conducted by any administrative,
judicial, or quasi-judicial bodies shall not bar the investigation by the
Commission of allegations of human rights violations.

Final orders, decisions, or resolutions of the Commission, in the exercise of
its investigative functions, shall be appealed to the Court of Appeals on both
questions of fact and law, or on certiorarito the Supreme Court on questions
of law;

b. In addition to its power to investigate all violations of human rights as defined
in Title 1, Section 12 of this Act, the Commission shall have the power to
investigate human rights and international humanitarian law violations, as
provided in pertinent laws, including but not limited to the provisions of the
following:


1. An Act Defining Certain Rights of Persons Arrested, Detained or
Under Custodial Investigation as well as the Duties of the Arresting,
Detaining and Investigating Officers, and Providing Penalties for
Violations Thereof (Republic Act No. 7438);

2. Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and
Discrimination Act (Republic Act No. 7610);

3. Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004
(Republic Act No. 9262);

4. Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 (Republic Act No. 9344);

5. The Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act No. 9710);

6. Anti-Torture Act of 2009 (Republic Act No. 9745);

7. Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009 (Republic Act No. 9775);

8. Philippine Act on Crimes Against Intemational Humanitarian Law,
Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity (Republic Act No.

9851);

9. Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act of 2012 (Republic
Act No. 10353);

10.Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013
(Republic Act No. 10368);

11.Human Security Act of 2007 (Republic Act No. 9372); and
Such other related laws as may hereafter be enacted.

c. Compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence, to
place the witness under oath or affirmation, issue subpoenas, and take
testimony in any investigation or inquiry;

Employ forensic sciences in making findings of human rights violations and
to assess the physical and mental well-being of living victims as well as to
exhume and/or autopsy dead victims;

Issue invitations, subpoenas, orders, or other processes requesting or
directing any person to appear, attend and testify at the meeting, forum,
conference, dialogue, public inquiry, or hearing conducted by the
Commission, any of its Regional Offices, sub-offices or designated

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Commission officers or committees; and for such person to produce and
submit records, documents, books, or other things under his/her/their
possession, control or supervision, and which are relevant to the case/s
being investigated by the Commission;

f. Issue orders and directives constituting legal and preventive measures,
provided for under Sections 14 and 15 of this Act, respectively;

g. Establish a witness protection program to provide safety to witnesses as
well as human rights defenders under threat and safeguard the integrity of
evidence;

h. Monitor status of implementation/action taken on recommended remedies
for human rights violations as referred and/or filed with appropriate
agencies, courts, or any other body;

i, Require the assistance of any officer or employee of any department,
bureau, office, instrumentality, or government-owned or controlled
corporations or local government or a district unit therein;

j. Engage the assistance of lawyers or legal aid groups, medical
organizations, as well as government agencies, in the exercise of its
investigative functions;

k. Cite and punish for contempt any person for violations of the Commission's
Rules of Procedures and lawful orders. The Rules of Court shall apply
‘suppletorily to the Rules of the Commission; and

1. Perform such other powers as may be necessary or incidental for the
effective exercise or conduct of its investigative powers.

No restraining order or writ of injunction shall be issued against the Commission
in the performance of its powers and functions, except those issued by the Court
of Appeals or the Supreme Court.

SEC. 14. Scope of Legal and Preventive Measures. - In all cases under
investigation, the Commission may issue all legal measures as well as provisional
remedies, which shall include, but are not limited to the following:

a. Mandatory Protection Orders (MPOs) directing government security forces
and other government agencies or private institutions to provide specific
protection to victims of and witnesses to human rights violations;

b. Orders directed to government officers and private institutions and
organizations for the purpose of providing protection such as but not limited
to temporary shelter, and security arrangements;

8


45

d.

. Orders directed to government and private lawyers as counsels de officio to

ensure that the human rights of the victim are not further violated in
processes in which they shall participate; and

Mediation between parties on issues that can be subject to settlement.

In investigation cases, the Commission may issue preventive measures, which
shall include, but are not limited to the following:

Injunctive orders to prevent any member of the government's military or
Police forces, as well as public officials or employees, or any person acting
under their control and supervision, from concealing, transferring, torturing,
or inflicting injury or abusing a person deprived of liberty.

. Orders directing the government official or employee, or any person in

control of any places of detention or confinement officials to allow access to
persons deprived of liberty by his/her counsel, physician, psychologist,
priest, pastor, rabbi, imam, or any spiritual adviser and relatives. Places of
detention and confinement shall refer to any physical space, area or
structure, whether moving or stationary, permanent or temporary, where
deprivation of liberty is carried out, and which establishment, operation, and
maintenance of the same is punishable under Section 14(i) of Republic Act
No.9745 (Anti Torture Act of 2009);

. Orders directing the government official or employee, or any person in

control of any places of detention or confinement to permit the inspection of
said premises;

|. Orders directing the transfer of the custodian of persons deprived of their

liberty and in danger of reprisal or retaliation of the latter's transfer due to
the filing of a complaint in connection with his/her detention of the alleged
victim and to take immediate measures to secure the safety of said person;

. Orders restraining/prohibiting the respondent, his unit or command from

entering the immediate vicinity of the affected area or residence and from
searching the victim or his belongings unless in the exercise of a valid
search; and

General writs of injunction ordering respondent to refrain from committing
any and all acts that would tend to cause irreparable harm or have the
immediate effect of rendering the investigation of the Commission moot and
academic.

SEC. 15. Referral to Disciplining Authority. — The Commission shall direct the
disciplining authority to take appropriate action against a public officer or employee

9


found guilty of committing violations of human rights and recommend his removal,
suspension, demotion, censure, imposition of fine, or prosecution.

For this purpose, every case on which the Commission has rendered a
resolution or recommendation adverse to a public official shall be transmitted to the
head of the department, agency or instrumentality, or of the province, city or
municipality concerned for immediate action, as may be necessary

In cases where the Commission's recommendations are not adopted by the
disciplining authority, a written information stating the reasons therefor must be
submitted to the Commission. The failure to report will warrant administrative charges
under Civil Service rules.

SEC. 16. National Preventive Mechanism (NPM). — |n line with its Constitutional
mandate to exercise visitorial powers over jails, prisons, or detention facilities and to
monitor the Government's compliance with international treaty obligations on human
rights, the Commission shall perform the duties of the National Preventive Mechanism
for the Prevention of Torture.

The Commission shall create a National Preventive Committee to fully implement
its functions as NPM. The members of this Committee shall have a term of two (2)
years and shall perform functions as may be defined by the Commission.

SEC. 17. Powers of the National Preventive Mechanism. — The National
Preventive Mechanism (“NPM”) shall have the following powers:

a. Full access to all information concerning the number of persons deprived of
their liberty in places of detention, as well as the number of places and
location;

b. Full access to all information referring to the treatment of those persons as
well as their conditions of detention;

c. Full access to all places of detention and their installation and facilities;

d. Conduct private interviews with persons deprived of liberty without
witnesses, either personally or with a translator if deemed necessary, as
well as with any other person who in the discretion of the Committee
possesses relevant information;

e. Liberty to choose the places to visit and persons to interview; and when
these should take place;


f. Freedom for its members to be accompanied, if needed, by an expert with
relevant expertise, experience, and knowledge as the Chairperson may
determine, on visits to places of detention; and

g. Determine its own rules and procedures, including its programs of visits.

SEC. 18. Functions of the National Preventive Mechanism. — The National

Preventive Mechanism (“NPM’) shall have the following functions:

a. Visit places of detention on a regular basis to examine treatment of persons
deprived of liberty with a view to ensuring their protection against torture
and inhuman or degrading treatment of punishment;

b. To refer for investigation any complaint made by a detainee with his/her
consent to the Commission on Human Rights proper or the appropriate
investigative agency of government;

c. Make recommendations to the President regarding the improvement of the
treatment and conditions of persons deprived of their liberty in places of
detention;

d. Submit to the President and other relevant authorities proposals and
observations concerning legislation relating to places of detention and the
treatment of persons deprived of their liberty;

e. Work, where appropriate, in cooperation or consultation with any person or
body, whether public or private, in connection with the discharge of any of
its functions under this Act and the Optional Protocol,

f, Maintain direct contact with the United Nations Sub-Committee on
Prevention of Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or
Punishment (SPT) to strengthen the capacity and mandate of the National
Preventive Mechanism for the prevention of torture and other cruel,
inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment and the protection of
persons deprived of liberty;

g. Coordinate and strengthen cooperation with concerned government
authorities on their roles and commitment for the effective and full
implementation of the NPM through constructive dialogue and meaningful
interaction with relevant stakeholders;

h. Publicize information covered by its visitation of the matters mentioned in

paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d) hereof, when circumstances so warrant, and
with due prudence: provided, that the NPM under its rules and regulations

il


may determine what information is confidential and may not be made public:
Provided, further, that any publicity issued by the Committee shall be
balanced, fair, and true. However, the NPM shall not publish personal data
relating to any person without the latter's express consent; and

i. Publish and disseminate an independent annual report including an annual
budget and expenditures report.

SEC. 19. Confidentiality. — Information collected by the National Preventive
Mechanism shall be confidential. No personal data shall be published without the
express consent of the individual concerned. However, the NPM may share case
reports and studies with Congress for purposes of legislation, provided that the
identities and other pieces of personal information of the persons concerned are
sufficiently concealed.

SEC. 20. Immunity. — No authority or official shall order, apply, permit, or
tolerate any sanction against any person or organization for having communicated to
the National Preventive Mechanism any information, and no such person or
organization shall be otherwise prejudiced in any way.

SEC. 21. Protection from Criminal Liability. —

a. No criminal, disciplinary, or administrative sanction shall be taken against
any person for having communicated, in good faith, any information to the
NPM or the Subcommittee.

b. Anything done, or purported to be done, in good faith, and in pursuance of
the functions and powers conferred under this Act or in respect of any
publication by or under the authority of the Committee of any report,
proceedings or any other matter under this Act shall not be a ground for
action, suit or other legal proceedings against the Committee or a member
or officer of the Committee.

c. Private Legal Assistance. - The Committee Members, Officers, and Staff of
the NPM are hereby authorized to engage the services of private lawyers or
extend counsel immediately upon receipt of court notice that a civil or
criminal action, suit or proceeding is filed against them. The lawyer's fee
shall be part of the indemnification package for the NPM Committee
Members, Officers, and Staff, subject to the provisions of Section 24 hereof.

SEC. 22. Indemnification of NPM Committee Members, Officers, and Staff. =
There shall be an indemnification package for the Committee Members, Officers, and
‘Staff, which may be in the form of free legal assistance, liability insurance, and other
forms of protection and indemnification for all costs and expenses reasonably incurred

12


by such persons in connection with any civil or criminal action, suit, or proceeding to
which they may be, or have been made a party by reason of the performance of their
functions or duties, unless they are finally adjudged in such action or proceeding to be
liable for gross negligence, misconduct or grave abuse of discretion.

SEC. 23. Imprescriptibility of Human Rights Violations. — The investigation of
human rights violations shall not be subject to any statute of limitations or prescriptive
period.

SEC. 24. Motu Proprio Dismissal. - The Commission may dismiss, motu
proprio, a complaint for the investigation of human rights violations on any of the
following grounds:

a. The complaint is outside of the jurisdiction of the Commission;

b. The complaint is trivial, frivolous, vexatious or made in bad faith; or
c. Other lawful grounds as may be determined by the Commission.
The dismissal of complaint is appealable to the Court of Appeals.

SEC. 25. Immunity From Suit. — The chairperson, members, officers, and
employees of the Commission shall be immune from legal action/s arising from the
performance of his/her duties. However, such immunity shall not cover acts done in
abuse of authority.

SEC. 26. Witness Auxiliary Protection Service. — \n the exercise of its protection
powers, the Commission shall implement and manage an Auxiliary Witness Protection
Service, which consists of, among others, the provisions of security, shelter,
relocation, and livelihood assistance to witnesses and their families.

The initial funding for the Auxiliary Witness Protection Service shall be allocated
for such purposes and shall be included thereafter in the annual regular appropriations
of the Commission.

The funds necessary for the initial implementation of the Auxiliary Witness
Protection Service shall be taken from the current year’s appropriation of the
Commission. Thereafter, the funding requirement shall be included in the annual
General Appropriations Act.

. PROMOTION AND ADVOCACY

SEC. 27. Human Rights Education and Advocacy. - The Commission shall
establish a program of human rights promotion and advocacy through education and

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training to enhance respect for the primacy of human rights in coordination with
different agencies of government. It shall likewise administer a Mandatory and
Continuing Human Rights Education Program for the military, police, and other law
enforcement agencies, as well as public school teachers. For this purpose, the
Commission shall develop the components of the Program, accredit course and
training providers, and issue certificates of completion to those who have successfully
completed the Program.

The Commission shall also undertake a Human Rights Education, Advocacy,
and Information Campaign Programs among sectors of civil society, particularly the
vulnerable, marginalized, and underprivileged groups. In conducting this Program,
the Commission shall actively cooperate and coordinate with human rights non-
government organizations, lawyers’ groups, the academe, and people's
organizations of the concerned sectors of civil society.

It shall also undertake Human Rights Education, Advocacy, and Information
Campaign Programs among sectors of civil society, particularly the vulnerable,
marginalized and underprivileged groups. In conducting this Program, the
Commission shall actively cooperate and coordinate with human rights non-
government organizations, lawyers’ groups, the academe and people's organizations
of the concerned sectors of civil society.

The Commission shall establish a Human Rights Institute as its research and
training arm for human rights education.

SEC. 28. Coverage of Program. - The Commission shall prescribe the scope
and coverage of education, advocacy, information, and training programs on human
rights.

SEC. 29. Research. - The Commission shall undertake a continuing research
and study on various human rights issues for purposes of education, recommending
policy reforms, as well as administrative and legislative measures of government.

SEC. 30. Human Rights Information and Communication. - The Commission
shall develop its information and communication program for the effective
dissemination and advocacy of human rights and international humanitarian law, as
well as other related human rights laws.

D. MONITORING AND POLICY DEVELOPMENT
SEC. 31. Monitoring Powers and Functions. — In the exercise of its mandate to

monitor the Government's compliance with its international human rights obligations,
the Commission shall:


a. Monitor and advice government on its responsibilities and obligations
under international human rights treaties to which the Philippines is
a signatory;

b. Recommend ratification of, or accession to, international human
rights instruments, and to ensure their implementation;

¢. Conduct inquiries on the manner of implementation by the
Government of specific human rights obligations;

d. Request the full cooperation of any public official on the measures
undertaken by his or her agency to comply with the State's
international human rights obligations; and

e. Enable stakeholders to participate in monitoring human rights treaty
compliance by the Government through consultative processes and
similar forums.

SEC. 32. Monitoring for Legislative and Policy Development. — The
Commission shall recommend to Congress effective measures to promote human
rights. It shall advise the concerned executive, legislative, and judicial agencies to
ensure conformity of national legislation, policy issuances, and local ordinances with
international human rights instruments.

SEC. 33. Compliance Reports to United Nations Treaty Monitoring Bodies and
Special Procedures. — |n the exercise of its human rights treaty monitoring function,
the Commission shall conduct the following functions, to wit

a. Advise Government to submit State Reports in compliance with the
reportorial obligations under international human rights treaties and
to furnish the Commission copies thereof upon submission to the
United Nations and other international bodies;

b. Provide, where necessary, the reports which States are required to
submit to United Nations bodies and committees, and to regional
institutions, pursuant to treaty obligations;

c. As anational human rights institution, the Commission shall have the
power to prepare its own independent reports to the United Nations,
or other treaty bodies and special procedures mechanisms in relation
to its monitoring of government's compliance with its international
human rights obligations;


d. Monitor and follow-up compliance of the recommendations made by
the United Nations’ treaty monitoring bodies and other special
procedures mechanisms;

e. Make the appropriate recommendations to the concerned executive
agency with regard to requests for official visits of United Nations
Special Rapporteurs and other treaty and charter-based
mechanisms; and

f. Such other activities as may be necessary in the conduct of its
monitoring and reporting functions as a National Human Rights
Institution

SEC. 34. Cooperation with the United Nations and other Human Rights System.
— To strengthen the power of the Commission in the promotion and protection of
human rights, it shall cooperate with the United Nations and any other organization in
the United Nations System including special procedures and charter-based
mechanism on matters pertaining to monitoring compliance on international treaties
on human rights.

The Commission shall likewise undertake collaborative efforts with international
and regional human rights networks and national human rights institutions of other
countries in relation to promotion and protection of human rights.

SEC. 35. Other Monitoring Functions. - The Commission shall monitor
observance by non-state actors of human rights obligations arising from international
and domestic laws or agreements entered into with the government, as well as
unilateral declarations and similar undertakings.

SEC. 36. Annual Report. —- The Commission shall prepare and make public an
annual report on the findings of its monitoring activities with regard to the state of the
Government's compliance with its international human rights treaty obligations. The
report shall include, but not limited, to the following:

a. Identification of systematic patterns of human rights violations using
documented cases, statistics and data indicating the nature of
complaints received, investigations conducted, and findings made;

b. Analysis of the factors which contribute to the commission of human
rights violations;

c. Assessment of the legal mechanisms of existing institutions in
providing adequate human rights protection;

16


d. Recommendations for legal, legislative, and institutional reforms for
the greater promotion and protection of human rights; and

e. Adoption and implementation by the concerned government agency
of the recommendations on the protection and promotion of human
rights contained in the Commission's policy issuances.

E—. OTHER POWERS AND FUNCTIONS

SEC. 37. Financial Assistance Program. — The Commission shall establish a
financial assistance program for victims of human rights violations and their families.

The initial funding for the Financial Assistance Program shall be allocated for
such purposes and shall be included thereafter in the annual regular appropriations
for the Commission, and the same shall be automatically and regularly released.

The funds necessary for the initial implementation of the Financial Assistance
Program shall be taken from the current year's appropriation of the Commission.
Thereafter, the funding requirement shall be included in the annual General
Appropriations Act.

SEC. 38. Legal Assistance Program. - The Commission shall promote a legal
assistance program to benefit victims of human rights violations in coordination with
human rights organizations and lawyers’ groups, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines,
and Philippine law schools.

Upon its discretion, the Commission may also provide allowances and
incentives to private lawyers or lawyers’ groups who would render their professional
services on behalf of the Commission in any court proceeding involving the litigation
of human rights cases, subject to auditing rules and regulations.

SEC. 39. Protection of Filipinos Abroad. — The Commission shall undertake
measures for the protection and promotion of human rights of Filipinos living abroad.
It may assign organic personnel as Human Rights Attachés in Philippine Embassy or
Consulates, or deputize Philippine Embassy or Consulate officers, resident private
individuals of known probity and active involvement in human rights, or foreign- based
human rights and migrant workers’ non-government organizations in countries where
the incidence of human rights violations of Filipinos is widespread and commonplace,
including traditional host countries of Overseas Filipino Workers.

The assigned personnel acting as Human Rights Attaché or deputized
individuals of the Commission shall monitor the status of human rights of Filipinos
living abroad and establish networks among Filipinos for purposes of monitoring and
reporting cases of human rights violations, as well as for providing counseling and

17


financial assistance to victims. They shall immediately notify the concerned Embassy
Officials of incidents of human rights violations of Filipinos and provide immediate
assistance to victims.

The Commission may establish bilateral relationship with other national human
rights institutions for the protection of human rights of Filipinos.

SEC. 40. Issuance of Certifications. - The Commission shall issue certifications
to members of the military, police, and other law enforcement agencies prior to, and
as a requirement for their promotion or assumption of office.

The Commission shall make its own recommendations to the Commission on
Appointments prior to the confirmation of other officials other than those mentioned in
the preceding paragraph, who are being considered for promotion or appointment.
This provision shall also apply to other government officers with salary grade 27 or its
equivalent and higher.

It shall also issue certifications for purposes of training, local or foreign study
grants and education, or for other purposes as may be determined by the Commission,
upon proper request made by the applicant.

SEC. 41. Ombudsman for Children’s Rights. - The Commission shall act as an
Ombudsman for Children's Rights to promote and safeguard the rights and welfare of
children and young people up to eighteen (18) years of age and to investigate
complaints made by children and young people or by adults on their behalf.

‘SEC. 42. Gender and Development Ombud. - The Commission shall act as the
Gender and Development Ombud to ensure the promotion and protection of women's
human rights and exercise its powers and functions under the Magna Carta of Women
Act of 2009.

TITLE Ill. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

SEC. 43. The Commission as a Collegial Body. - The Commission, composed
of the Chairperson and four (4) Members, as a collegial body, is responsible for the
promulgation of policies, decisions, orders, and resolutions necessary for the efficient
administration of the Commission and for proper execution of its constitutional
mandate.

In the exercise of its powers and functions, the Commission shall sit and render
its decision en banc. Every such decision, order, or resolution of the Commission must
bear the concurrence and signature of at least three (3) Members thereof.

The Commission shall meet regularly. A majority of the members, at least three
(3), constitutes a quorum needed in any en banc meeting of the Commission.

18


SEC. 44. The Chairperson as Executive Officer; Powers and Duties. — The

Chairperson shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, and shall:

a.

SEC. 45. Structural Organization. - The Commission shall have the following

Execute and carry out the policies, decisions, orders, and resolutions
approved by the Commission;

. Direct and supervise the operations and internal administration of the

Commission;

. Sign appointments of subordinate officials and employees made by

the Commission and enforce decisions on administrative discipline
involving them;

. Make temporary assignments, rotate, and transfer personnel in

accordance with the provisions of the Civil Service Law and the
policies involving them;

. Submit an annual budget to the Commission for its approval and

‘submission to the Department of Budget and Management and to the
Congress of the Philippines;

Delegate his/her authority, in whole or in part, to other officials of the
Commission in accordance with Executive Order No. 292, otherwise
known as the Administrative Code of 1987, and the rules and
regulations of the Commission; and

. Perform such other functions as may be authorized by the

Commission.

offices and operating units:

a.

b.

Office of the Chairperson;

Office of the Commissioners;

Office of the Executive Director, Finance Administration and Management
|. Office of the Commission Secretariat;

. Office for Planning and Development, Special Projects, and Audit;

Human Rights Protection Office;

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g. Human Rights Education, Research, Training and Promotion Office; and

h. Office of the Director for Regional Operations, Thematic and Sectoral
Concerns

As an independent constitutional office, the Commission may effect changes in
the organization as the need arises, provided that such reorganization shall be funded
within the personnel services appropriation of the Commission.

All officers and employees of the Commission, unless otherwise provided
herein, shall receive emoluments and privileges, which shall not be less than those
given to comparable positions in any office in the government

SEC. 46. Office of the Executive Director, Finance Administration and
Management. - The Commission shail appoint an Executive Director who shall also
be the Director for Finance Administration and Management. He or she shall oversee
the day-to-day activities of offices handling administrative, finance, and support to
operations in keeping with the directions of the Commission.

The Executive Director shall also perform other tasks as maybe assigned to
him or her by the Commission.

SEC. 47. Commission Secretariat. - The Executive Director shall also head the
Commission Secretariat to provide executive and support services to the Commission
on its regular, special and executive meetings, assist on policy review and
coordination, undertake review and appraisal of the programs and other project
undertakings of the Commission, including technical support on the formulation of
guidelines, directives, mandates and executive summaries and reports. He/she shall
Teview processes and systems as they affect the efficient operations of the
Commission and submit to the en banc proposals to improve processes, systems, and
operations.

SEC. 48. Office for Planning and Development, Special Projects and Audit. —
The Planning, Development, Special Project and Audit shall be under the direct
supervision of the Chairperson, and shall coordinate with offices and specialized
centers in developing programs, strategic plans to detailed proposals for submission
to partner organizations; ensures compliance of agency to donor requirements and
other documentation; maintain linkages with international donors for foreign-assisted
programs and projects. It shall also coordinate with offices to identify baseline
standards, performance indicators, and targets to achieve the organizational goal of
the Commission.

Audit shall include the process of determining cost effectiveness, value for
money, and benefits of major investments and expenditures of the Commission and

20


43

enhance individual and unit accountabilities of established systems and procedures.
It shall evaluate the efficiency of operations and determine whether policies are being
followed consistently in all offices of the Commission and correct deficiencies in
established internal control systems and procedures.

SEC. 49. Duties and Functions of the Offices of the Commission. - The different
offices of the Commission provided in Section 47 of this Act shall operate in
accordance with their respective duties and functions assigned to them by the
Commission, subject to the requirements of efficiency, economy, and effectiveness,
and pertinent budget and civil service laws, rules and regulations.

SEC. 50. Office of the Director for Regional Operations, Thematic and Sectoral
Concems. — The Director for Regional Operations shall be responsible for managing
the day-to-day affairs, activities and operations of the Commission in Regional and
Provincial Offices, in accordance with its policies, standards, rules and regulations
adopted and promulgated by the Commission. It shall also manage the operations of
existing specialized centers of the Commission with legal mandate, such as the
Women's Human Rights Center under the Magna Carta of Women Act of 2009, and
Child Rights Center under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006.

The Commission shall have the following field offices:
(a) Regional Offices:

The Commission shall have eighteen (18) Regional Human Rights Offices.
These will include the twelve (12) geographically grouped regional offices; the
four (4) special administrative regions created by law, namely, the National
Capital Region (NCR), the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), the Caraga
Administrative Region (CARAGA), and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region
in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

For purposes of an efficient and effective administration and operation, Region
IV shall be divided into Region IV-A and Region IV-B. The former shall cover
the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon, while the latter
shall cover the provinces of Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque,
Romblon, and Palawan

Each Regional Office shall be headed by a Regional Human Rights Director IV,
who must be a member of the Philippine Bar, assisted by an Assistant Regional
Human Rights Director, and such other subordinate officers or employees as
the Commission may appoint. They should be persons having general
understanding of the human rights situation over the locality and are of known
probity and independence.

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(b) Provincial Offices:

Each Provincia/District Human Rights Office shall be headed by a
Provincial/District Human Rights Officer, and such other subordinate officers or
employees as the Commission may appoint. The Provincial/District Human
Rights Officers shall carry the rank and receive salaries or benefits equivalent
to a Director Ill. They should be persons having general understanding of the
human rights situation over the locality and are of known probity and
independence.

The Commission shall have an office in every province corresponding to each
Regional Office, except the National Capital Region. The latter shall instead be
subdivided into four (4) separate districts: the Northern District, Eastern District,
Western District, and the Southern District, and each shall be considered a
separate District Human Rights Office.

These Provincial/District Human Rights Offices shall provide identified
services for the protection and promotion of human rights within their specific
areas of jurisdiction. They shall be under the direct supervision of the Regional
Human Rights Office having territorial jurisdiction over them.

SEC. 51. Human Rights Protection Office. - The Human Rights Protection
Office shall provide legal, investigation, visitorial, and victims support services.

SEC. 52. Human Rights Education, Research, Training and Promotion Office.
— The Human Rights Education Office shall provide education, training, advocacy, and
campaign services. It shall also conduct research on human rights situations and
provide research and documentation including management of library and
publications. Within three years from the entry into force of this law, it shall assist the
Commission in establishing the Institute of Human Rights which shail be the principal
training unit of the Commission.

SEC. 53. Operational Guidelines. - The Commission shall also formulate its
operational guidelines which shall include, but not be limited to, the functions and
duties of the Director for Finance Administration and Management, the Director for
Operations and Commission Secretary, Director for Regional Operations, and the
heads of the line offices, the implementation and management of its Temporary
Witness Protection Service, Financial Assistance and Legal Aid Programs, and such
other matters as may be necessary for the implementation of this Act.

SEC. 54. Franking Privilege. — All official mail matters and telegrams of the
Commission addressed for delivery within the Philippines shall be received,
transmitted and delivered free of charge; Provided, That such mail matters when
addressed to private persons or non-government offices shall not exceed One

22


Thousand and Twenty (1,020) grams. All mail matters and telegrams sent through
government telegraph facilities containing complaints to the Commission shall be
transmitted free of charge; Provided, That the telegram shall contain not more than
One Hundred and Fifty (150) words.

SEC. 55. Financial Report. - The Commission shall make available to the public
its annual financial statements, including but not limited to, expenditures and sources
of funds.

SEC. 56. Appropriations. — In addition to the regular appropriations of the
Commission, the sum of Three Hundred Million Pesos (P300,000,000.00)for the
initial implementation of this Act shall be included in the Annual General
Appropriations Act, in the year following its enactment into law. Thereafter, such
sums, as maybe necessary for the full implementation of this Act, shall be included
in the annual General Appropriations Act.

SEC. 57. NPM Appropriations. - The National Preventive Mechanism shall
have an initial operating budget from the General Appropriations Act. This budget shall
not be utilized for any other purpose apart from NPM work as determined by the NPM
Committee.

The amount for the initial operation of the NPM shall be sourced from the
Contingent Fund of the Office of the President. Subsequent funding requirements shall
be included in the annual GAA.

SEC. 58. Transitory Provisions. — Nothing in this Act shall prejudice the
Positions, emoluments, security of tenure, qualifications, privileges, and benefits of
the incumbent Chairperson and Commissioners, officers and employees of the
Commission upon its effectivity. However, officials and employees of the
Commission, in aid of its reorganization upon the effectivity of this Act, may avail of
an early retirement program as may be provided for by the Commission.

To prevent interruption or disruption in the operations of the Commission, the
Chairperson and members of the Commission shall continue in office in a hold-over
capacity unless their successors shall have been duly appointed; Provided that, while
acting in a hold-over capacity, they shall not make appointments, including
promotions, transfers and/or assignments of personnel.

SEC. 59. Implementing Rules and Regulation. ~ The Commission shall, within
sixty (60) days from the approval of this Act, formulate the implementing rules and
regulations in the exercise of its general, investigative, monitoring, education, and
advocacy powers and functions in consultation with other concerned agencies of
government.

23


SeowmiudM4v.eun

SEC. 60. Separability Clause. — Should any provision of this Act or part hereof
be declared unconstitutional, the other provisions or parts not affected thereby shail
remain valid and effective.

SEC. 61. Repealing Clause. ~ All laws, decrees, orders, and issuances, or
portions thereof, which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, are hereby
repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

SEC. 62. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days
from its complete publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,

24