FILE PHOTO: Application process at Human Rights Victims Claims Board (UNTV News)
QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Human rights victims of the martial law era have only up to the end of the month to file their claims for reparation and recognition.
Since the filing extension started last April 8 more than 62 thousand applicants to date were accepted by the claims board.
Chairperson Lina Sarmiento said, applicants should take advantage of the remaining days before the deadline to avoid long queues.
Aside from the regional offices, the claims board is sending teams in other places to accommodate applicants.
Sarmiento reminded people that the application is free of charge.
They have received reports that there are persons assisting applicants in exchange for 1,500-2,500 pesos.
“We did not authorized anyone to organized or accept claims specially if they are asking for money,” said Sarmiento.
The claims board is hoping that they could distribute the reparation before the end of the agency’s mandate on May 12, 2016.
Only after the actual number of martial victims has been officially documented can the agency determine the amount that each complainant will receive based on injuries suffered. (REY PELAYO/UNTV NEWS)