CHR urges intensive search for missing environmentalist Rowena Dasig

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has called for an “exhaustive search” for Rowena Dasig, an environmentalist from Calabarzon, who was reported missing after she was freed from detention.

“As the country’s independent national human rights institution, we are closely monitoring and investigating this matter to ascertain her whereabouts and safety,” the CHR said Thursday in a statement.

“We also call upon all relevant government and law enforcement agencies to immediately conduct their efforts within their respective mandates,” it added.

Dasig was arrested with community health worker Miguela “Ella” Peniero in Atimonan, Quezon in 2023.

They were charged with illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.

Dasig was also tagged as a leader of the New People’s Army by the 85th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

On August 13,  the Gumaca Regional Trial Court Branch 172 dismissed Dasig’s case.

Human rights group Karapatan earlier expressed alarm over Dasig’s disappearance.

Karapatan said Dasig was supposed to be released from Lucena City District Jail on August 22 but neither her family, lawyer, nor legal counsel knew her whereabouts.

The group said those who may have information on Dasig may contact them at 09514672923.

In a Viber message forwarded to GMA News Online, Jail Chief Inspector Elaine Toledo, Lucena City District Jail - Female Dormitory warden, said Dasig was released from the Lucena City District Jail on August 22.

"Accordingly, PDL (person deprived of liberty) Dasig was released from the said facility on August 22, 2024 and fetched by her sister Gloria Dasig. Contrary to the report that said PDL was missing," Toledo said. 

The CHR, meanwhile, called for stricter implementation of Republic Act 10535 or the Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act.

“It is important that human rights defenders in our country are able to effectively conduct their work without any fear for their own welfare,” CHR said.

“It is about time that we strengthen the safeguards on the rights of activists to address their susceptibility to violence, harassment, and even red-tagging,” it added. — RSJ/VBL, GMA Integrated News