i) freedom from arbitrary arrest, detention or exile; j) freedom of movement and residence; k) freedom of thought, conscience and religion; l) freedom of the press, speech, opinion and expression; m) freedom from discrimination; n) right to marry and to found a family; and, o) right to own property. Section 2. The Commission on Human Rights shall monitor the Philippine Government’s compliance with international human rights treaties and instruments to which the Philippines is a State party. This includes, but is not limited to, the actions taken by the Government, the manner and/or means of implementation or application of the human rights related laws, principles, norms and standards, in relation to the State obligations to respect, protect and fulfil the human rights of all persons within the Philippines, as well as Filipinos residing abroad. Corollary thereto, the Commission on Human Rights, in line with its role as a national human rights institution, shall also investigate and monitor all economic, social and cultural rights violations and abuses, as well as threats of violations thereof, especially with respect to the conditions of those who are marginalized, disadvantaged, and vulnerable. (Emphasis ours)17 The Philippines is a signatory to and/or has ratified various international human rights instruments listed in Annex “A.” !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 17 Commission on Human Rights, The Omnibus Rules of Procedure of the Commission on Human Rights, i-ii, Apr. 2012. ! ! ! ! ! 10 !