The Commission on Human Rights on Saturday welcomed the filing of murder charges against six police officers in connection with the "unjust killing" of 17-year-old Jerhode "Jemboy" Baltazar Navotas City in August.

In a statement, the CHR likewise commended the Department of Justice for "conducting a comprehensive review" of Baltazar's slay case, which has led to the decision to file murder charges against police officers allegedly involved in the killing.

"This swift development on the case is an important step towards ensuring justice and accountability, especially as it involves law enforcement agents," it said.

The human rights body said the "senseless death" of Baltazar "underscored the importance of holding law enforcement agents" accountable for their actions to curb violations and abuses that breach fundamental rights.

CHR firmly stressed that positions of authority, including law enforcers, "are not above the law.

"Those who committed alleged violations must be held responsible considering that they made an oath to serve in accordance with the rules and standards required of police officers," it added.

CHR hopes that the filing of murder charges against the suspects "will serve as a strong message that any alleged human rights violations by law enforcement officers will not be tolerated in our society."

"Aside from its crucial importance in delivering justice to Jemboy and his family, it can also help restore public trust in our law enforcement agencies," it further stated.

"The Commission also expects that the case amplifies the importance of abiding with established rules of operations that adhere to human rights-based policing to prevent violations that denigrate human rights, especially the utmost right to life."

CHR likewise urged the Philippine National Police to continue strengthening its programs and training "that will imbue its personnel with a renewed commitment to human rights practice" and values in the conduct of their duty.

The commission said it will continue monitoring the case and provide support "in aid of ascertaining justice."

"As we mark this positive development, it is equally important to ensure continued commitment to due process, transparency, and accountability throughout the legal proceedings," it said.

After the issuance of the warrant of arrest, the six police officers turned themselves into the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Lucena City in Quezon last Wednesday.

They will be facing murder charges and are not entitled to bail.

Eight policemen, including the six who were ordered arrested by the court, were dismissed due to serious grave neglect of duty.

Since then, their benefits have been forfeited and their eligibility was revoked. While they were perpetually disqualified from holding any other government posts.