thru all means of communication and other types of coordination with concerned areas. VII. CONCLUDING OBSERVATIONS This report shows that violations of civil and political rights and ESCR rights of the people could escalate in times of crisis especial those belonging to the vulnerable, marginalized, and disadvantaged (VMD) sectors. These vulnerable sectors of the society struggle, in varying degrees and effects, about deprivation and neglect with respect to their fundamental human rights. For the duty bearers, despite the human rights standards and policies in place, as well as institutional efforts to inculcate human rights and the rule of law, they are still susceptible to commit human rights violations. Data show that violation of the right to life still remain high. The spike in the number of red tagging cases against human rights defenders who are critical of the government or seeking government accountability show that the right to freedom of expression and to form association as well as the right to petition the government for redress of grievances may be susceptible of being challenged and violated in times of crisis. Many vulnerable sectors have been affected by the onset of the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic here in Cordillera. The business environment was adversely affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic and government intervention is needed to ensure that the right of the people to a just and lawful livelihood is protected and sustained. In this time of pandemic, the right to life and to a healthful life is paramount. Consistent with this, economic rights cannot take a back seat if we are to ensure that people continuously enjoy freedom from poverty. Government agencies have provided the needed emergency action to support those in need during this pandemic. However, government intervention to avert further crisis in the economy, such as the tourismdependent local economy of the Cordillera Region is needed. VIII. RECOMMENDATIONS ❖ Continuous monitoring of the implementation of government programs designed to secure and sustain the economic rights of citizens, including the right to livelihood, the right to work in safe conditions and to a humane standard of living; 48 P a g e CHR CAR REGIONAL HR SITUATION REPORT – JANUARY to JUNE 2020