I. RATIONALE

Torture is a serious and terrible assault against human dignity. It strikes at the very core of one’s civil and political freedoms violating human rights. Torture is immoral and impractical and is declared unacceptable by the international law and the domestic laws of most countries.

The mental health consequences of violence including torture and traumatic stress worldwide have emerged as one of the major public health problems of our time (WHO 2002). Severe physical and mental health effects associated with torture and trauma will continue to be a public health problem. The consequences of torture are not only in relation to health but also in the exercise of rights of person. It affects not only individuals and families, but also communities, societies, and entire nations. The legacy of these experiences — because of the indelible marks they leave – often continue into subsequent generations creating an enduring cycle of pain and suffering (also known as multi generation trauma)

The prohibition of torture is absolute. The Constitution mandates that no one shall be subjected to torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment and punishment. The Philippines as a state party to the International Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment, guarantees that no one may be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.