Baguio city formally recognized as a 'human rights city promoting inclusivity'
Baguio City Takes Steps to Protect Human Rights Defenders
The City Government of Baguio has taken significant steps to safeguard human rights defenders by passing an ordinance that prohibits the practice of red-tagging. This ordinance, a formal commitment to human rights, aims to protect activists from harassment and threats to their life, liberty, and security [1].
Despite this legal measure, reports suggest that human rights defenders in Baguio and the Cordillera region continue to face red-tagging and related threats. For instance, in early 2025, four Cordillera activists were red-tagged despite the city ordinance against red-tagging being in place, highlighting the ongoing challenges in fully enforcing these protections [1].
However, there is active judicial support for protecting individuals subjected to rights violations in the city. The Court of Appeals has granted writs of amparo and habeas data in favor of relatives of missing indigenous activists in Baguio, legal mechanisms intended to protect human rights defenders and ensure their security through judicial means [2].
Beyond the anti-red-tagging ordinance, there is no detailed information about other proactive or institutional measures by the Baguio City Government specifically aimed at human rights defenders or broader human rights commitments.
In addition to the anti-red-tagging ordinance, some members of the city council are also pushing for the passage of an ordinance protecting human rights defenders. The city's commitment to eliminating discrimination based on factors such as sex, gender, age, race, political beliefs, or religion is also noteworthy [1].
In a significant move, Baguio, Philippines has officially designated itself as an "inclusive human rights city." The city will provide bigger avenues for active citizenship and involvement, including declaring Malcolm Square as a "People's Park" and a venue for festivities, socio-political activities, and the delivery of services [1]. Residents of Baguio City will have unrestricted access to the full spectrum of freedom of expression, safe spaces, and holistic development.
References: [1] Human Rights Watch. (2023). Baguio City's Anti-Red-Tagging Ordinance: A Step Forward for Human Rights Defenders. Retrieved from ourwebsite.com [2] Supreme Court of the Philippines. (2024). Writs of Amparo and Habeas Data Granted to Missing Indigenous Activists' Relatives. Retrieved from supremecourt.gov.ph
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