BM Kitongan to propose establishment of Kalinga Human Rights Center

Tabuk City, Kalinga - Kalinga District 1 Board Member Emilio T. Kitongan is set to propose the establishment of a Human Rights Center in the province to further strengthen access to justice and ensure that the rights of the iKalingas are well protected.  

In an interview with Guru Press Cordillera, Kitongan said that while there are ongoing efforts to uphold human rights in the province, there is still no physical center that directly caters to complaints, consultations, and assistance on human rights concerns.  

“Maysa daytoy nga priority tayo kasi kailangan ti kakailyan tayo ti maysa nga lugar where they can freely seek help and guidance when their rights are violated. Ada ti ongoing nga efforts ti human rights ditoy province, pero awan pailang ti center tayo, where our constituents can go to,” said Kitongan.  

The board member, who is also the chairperson of the Committee on Human Rights, Public Order, and Safety, emphasized that the center will not only focus on responding to violations and legal consultations but also on promoting awareness and education on human rights.  

As of said date, Kitongan mentioned that he is finalizing a draft ordinance for the center's establishment, which will be officially presented during next week's Sangguniang Panlalawigan Regular Session. 

The provincial legislator mentioned that if the ordinance is approved and funding is allocated, the center will be constructed within the Kalinga Capitol Compound, expressing hope that the SP, headed by Vice-Governor Dave Odeim, and the provincial government will support the initiative for the benefit of all the residents in the province. 

“Sapay koma ah ta ma-approve to. I am hopeful nga dagitoy kakadwa tayo ti SP, headed by the Vice Governor, ket makita da importance na daytoy ipropose tayo nga center and approbaran da. Araramiden tayo amin tapno makatulong tayo kadagitoy kakailyan tayo,” said Kitongan.