MANILA, Philippines – Justice Secretary Leila de Lima has ordered the investigation of several National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents for alleged racial profiling and discrimination against Muslims in connection with their probe into the recent bombing in Zamboanga City.
Saying that her agency does not tolerate discrimination against any group or sector of society, Lima ordered the investigation of the NBI's Western Mindanao office for using an artist's sketch of a suspect in the Zamboanga blast with the label, “Muslim type.”
De Lima directed Justice Undersecretary Zabedin Azis to lead the probe in coordination with NBI Director Virgilio Mendez.
“This would violate not only the equal protection clause of our Constitution but also our commitments under international law,” the Cabinet official said, referring to the label.
She stressed that the Philippines, as party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, is supposed to fight discrimination based on race, religion, political opinion or national origin; and uphold respect for human rights without any distinction.
Azis highlighted the role of mutual respect and equal protection of law in the pursuit of multicultural harmony.
"We are determined to avoid negative stereotypes and misinformation about beliefs, cultures and communities. The government will protect and respect every Filipino regardless of race, color and religion,” he said.
NBI-Western Mindanao director Fernando Lavin had earlier apologized for the lapse, after meeting with Muslim community leaders in the region.
The sketch of the male suspect tagged as the “Muslim Type” went viral on social media and caused public outrage. (READ: #ENDdiscriminationNOW: Outrage over NBI's 'Muslim type' profile ) – Rappler.com