THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Central Visayas will look into reports that unvaccinated individuals are being barred from entering facilities and establishments not included in Executive Order 157 of the Cebu City Government.
The CHR is also poised to issue an official stand on the Cebu City Government’s “no vaccination, no entry” policy at a charging area outside the City Hall building.
CHR 7 Regional Director Arvin Odron told SunStar Cebu that preventing an unvaccinated person from accessing government services is contrary to law.
The Cebu City Government earlier installed placards bearing the words “No vaccination card, no charging!” in its charging station located in an open space outside the Cebu City Hall building.
Section 21 of EO 157 issued by Mayor Michael Rama on Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022 allows only fully vaccinated persons to enter closed and indoor venues and establishments including malls and department stores.
The EO further states that minors 12 to 17 years old must be accompanied by a fully vaccinated and responsible adult, guardian, or parent.
Odron noted that the newly imposed restriction in the charging station is not included in the prohibitions of the EO.
“The office will look into it and bring the matter to the attention of concerned officials as it appears to be discriminatory against the non-vaccinated constituents,” said Odron.
Section 12 (g) of RA 11525 otherwise known as the Covid-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021 states that “vaccine cards shall not be considered as an additional mandatory requirement for educational, employment, and other similar government transaction purposes.”
Odron said while private establishments have a greater leeway in regulating activities within their premises, the government should flag establishments that implement discriminatory policies.
“The government should be consistent with the mandate and obligation to respect and protect human rights,” said Odron.
Odron said the “no vaccination, no charging” policy of the Cebu City Government has already been endorsed to CHR’s Central Office for the issuance of a formal statement that would reflect its position on the matter as government’s official national human rights institution.