KOJC’s human rights claim

By attorney Romeo Cabarde Jr.

In light of the situation regarding the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) and their claims of human rights violations by the Philippine National Police, it is crucial to analyze this through the lens of social contract theory. Social contract theory suggests that members of a society agree to adhere to certain rules and norms in exchange for protection and the security of their rights. When an entity or group systematically undermines these rights, it risks forfeiting its moral authority to claim those rights when it becomes the target of enforcement actions.

Social contract theory and the KOJC

The social contract in any society is based on mutual respect for the rights of all individuals. When a group like KOJC, through its platform Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), ignores or undermines the human rights of others, such as during the Duterte government’s war on drugs or through red-tagging, or even when its director is accused of sexual abuse and exploitation, physical violence and punishment, it undermines the fundamental principles of this contract. By facilitating or even participating in actions that violate human rights, such as condoning extrajudicial killings or falsely accusing individuals of being enemies of the state, KOJC has in fact violated the social contract.

When the group now claims that its own rights are being violated by the actions of the police in searching for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, these claims are met with skepticism. This skepticism arises because the group’s past behavior demonstrates a selective commitment to human rights, invoking them only when they themselves are affected, rather than consistently upholding them for all.

The Irony of Human Rights Claims

The irony here is palpable. During the Duterte administration, the KOJC and its affiliates often ignored the human rights of others, particularly in their support for the government’s hardline tactics against suspected drug criminals and political dissidents. According to social contract theory, human rights are meant to be universal. When the KOJC now finds itself on the receiving end of state enforcement, its appeal to human rights seems inconsistent with its past actions and rhetoric.

This situation is an example of a concept in the social sciences known as “false consciousness,” in which a group is misled or deceived about its own interests or the nature of the social structure it supports. The KOJC, by aligning themselves with a political agenda that often ignored human rights, may have contributed to a political hegemony of which they are now victims. Their sudden awareness of the importance of human rights underscores a selective understanding and application of these principles—an application that is more about convenience than real commitment.

Lessons in Consistency and the Universality of Human Rights

Despite the past actions of KOJC and its leadership, the principle of human rights remains universal and undiminished. Even those who have previously violated or undermined human rights are entitled to fair treatment under the law. However, there is an important lesson here: respect for human rights must be consistent. It cannot depend on one’s political affiliation or loyalty to certain figures such as Pastor Apollo Quiboloy or former President Rodrigo Duterte.

The experience of receiving enforcement actions can be a difficult way for KOJC members and leaders to learn the value of human rights. It offers an opportunity for introspection and a broader appreciation of these rights, beyond their immediate circumstances. A true commitment to human rights involves defending them universally, not selectively.

Conclusion

A call for universal adherence to human rights. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all parties, including KOJC, to recognize that human rights are not instruments of political expediency, but fundamental principles that protect the dignity of every individual. Looking ahead, it is hoped that KOJC, and others in similar situations, will consistently advocate for human rights and recognize their importance, regardless of political context or personal affiliation. True adherence to the social contract requires nothing less.

Romeo ‘Meong’ Cabarde Jr. is a lawyer and a member of the Ateneo de Davao University, where he directs the Ateneo Public Interest and Legal Advocacy (APILA)