CHR urges gov't to prioritize IP health needs amid COVID-19

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is urging the government to prioritize the health needs of indigenous peoples and minority groups to protect them from COVID-19.

CHR Spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia highlighted the inherent health vulnerabilities of indigenous communities due to limited access to healthcare, poor sanitation, and land issues.

De Guia expressed concern that a pandemic could devastate indigenous tribes given their low immunity to common diseases.

While there are no confirmed COVID-19 cases among indigenous peoples in the Philippines yet, the CHR stresses the need for proactive measures.

The CHR warned that these groups are often excluded from humanitarian interventions during emergencies, emphasizing the state's obligation to provide aid based on need, not status.

The government is urged to ensure access to food, basic nutrition, and clean water for indigenous communities, as their limited economic resources make it difficult to stock up and stay home.

Indigenous groups have reported facing discrimination and geographical barriers in accessing healthcare services.

The CHR advocates for free COVID-19 related health services for indigenous peoples and stated that lack of identification should not hinder their access to essential government services.

The commission emphasized that despite the high demand for health services nationwide, minority groups, who are less represented and have lower economic capital, must not be overlooked in protection efforts against COVID-19.