CHR confirms probe on arrest of ex-Cebu City administrator

Local

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) 7 has confirmed that they have launched an investigation into alleged human rights violations during the November 8 arrest and detention of former Cebu City administrator Collin Rosell.

The inquiry, ordered by CHR's central office, targets Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) Director Col. Antonietto Cañete and Waterfront Police Station Chief Maj. John Lynberth Castigador Yango, among others.

CHR 7 Director Arvin Odron confirmed that the investigation includes Rosell’s case, which the agency reviewed in observance of National Human Rights Consciousness Week.

He stressed that the CHR evaluates cases of alleged rights violations, regardless of whether the complainant is a public official or an ordinary citizen.

Odron added that the CHR aims to remain neutral throughout the process. Investigators will review the facts, examine evidence, and determine if any human rights violations or abuses occurred.

He explained that the CHR will only proceed with a formal investigation after Rosell submits a complaint-affidavit. Both parties will be summoned for official statements to ensure fairness before any charges are filed.

Odron also highlighted that the CHR is prioritizing its independence and impartiality in handling the case.

“The CHR will stay in the middle. We will evaluate the facts of the case, the evidence presented and determine whether there is a violation of human rights or abuse,” he said.

He added that Rosell’s legal background as a lawyer gives him an advantage in asserting his rights, but the CHR will continue to assess the case to determine its merits.

The CCPO has expressed its willingness to cooperate with the CHR’s probe. In a MyTV Openline news media forum, Lt. Col. Maria Theresa Macatangay, CCPO’s deputy director for operations, insisted that Rosell’s arrest and detention followed legal procedures and were conducted properly.

She emphasized that all actions taken during the incident were lawful and above-board.

Rosell was arrested at Cebu City Hall on complaints of usurpation of authority and resisting arrest. The incident stemmed from his attempt to return as city administrator and sign an official memorandum.

A video of the arrest showed Cañete and other officers handcuffing Rosell. After spending the night in detention at the Waterfront Police Station, Rosell posted bail the following day.

Rosell has since filed complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas against Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, Acting City Administrator Kristine Joyce Batucan, City Legal Office Head Santiago Ortiz, and unnamed station personnel.

The complaints allege misconduct related to his arrest.

The Philippine National Police’s Internal Affairs Service is also conducting its own investigation into the actions of Cañete and Yango.

This probe addresses allegations of Grave Misconduct and Gross Neglect of Duty, which Rosell and former mayor Michael Rama’s camp claim occurred during the arrest.

Rama’s camp accused the police of arresting Rosell without valid grounds, further escalating tensions between the involved parties.

The CHR’s investigation underscores its commitment to upholding human rights amid allegations of abuse. Odron affirmed that due process will be observed and that the agency will evaluate all evidence presented to reach an impartial resolution.(MyTVCebu)