The preamble and 30 articles of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR) were formulated in such way as to underscore the universality of our common humanity. Consequently, this new paradigm and preferred values of the international community were clear. The mother of all human rights instruments ensured that all relativism was avoided. The UDHR became acceptable for every religion, every philosophy and every culture. The universality of human rights was re-affirmed in the Vienna Declaration of 1996.

The victims and families of the despicable Ampatuan, Maguindanao massacre have a right to redress. Bodies “bearing marks of despicable torture, contempt and outrageous torment” cry to the heavens for justice. The perpetrators of the gruesome murders, rape and other inhuman and cruel treatment must also be brought to justice. Proper charges must be made against them.

No Basis for Martial Law

The Supreme Court has established that despite threats against some judges and court personnel the judicial system is able to respond to the needed procedures demanded by the despicable massacre in Ampatuan, Maguindanao. This debunks one of the basis for issuing Presidential Proclamation 1959 stating that “the local judicial system and other government mechanisms in the province are not functioning, thus endangering public safety….” The other conditions, ironically brought about by Executive patronage, which purportedly deprived the Chief Executive or the Legislature of its powers and prerogatives could be rectified, if Ms Arroyo is willing.