By Arabella Rochynne C. Asis 

Far Eastern University (FEU) alumnus Atty. Beda Angeles Epres has been elected as the newest commissioner under the 6th Commission en banc (CEB).

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the appointment letter last September 15. 

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) confirmed the announcement after almost five months of position vacancy. 

According to CHR Press Release, Epres graduated from FEU in the program of Political Science in 1990. 

It was in his early career that he became a part-time lecturer at FEU and an officer at the National Power Corporation. 

Most of his career has been dedicated to investigative work as he served at the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) since 1997.

Under OMB, he started as the Graft Investigation and Prosecution Officer I. Prior to his appointment, he held the position of Director IV of the General Investigation Bureau-A of Field Investigation Office I. 

As a commissioner, Epres expressed his goal 'to advance the rights of older persons and children.' 

CHR affirms that the addition of Epres will further the betterment and service of the Commission especially for the weak, vulnerable, and marginalized people of the society.  

Epres is the first of the five anticipated appointments of CEB, the highest decision and policy-making body of the Commission. 

Commissioner Epres is set to serve a seven-year term—from 2022 until 2029.

(Photo courtesy of Commission on Human Rights)