The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday raised alarm over alleged consecutive aerial bombings in the Cordillera region carried out by the military as part of its counter-insurgency operations against alleged members of the New Peoples’ Army.
“In line with this, the Commission calls on authorities, especially those in the security sector, to prioritize the protection of civilians in the context of armed conflict. It is imperative that all parties strictly adhere to the international humanitarian law and preserve peace at all times possible,” it said.
“In times of conflict, it is the vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalized who suffer the most. In the midst of violence and strife, the CHR remains resolute in its efforts to ensure that the voices of the vulnerable are heard and that their rights are not overshadowed,” it added.
The bombing and accompanying combat operations had impacted 2.700 residents in Barangay Maling and neighboring barangays Dao-angan and Balantoy in Balbalan, Kalinga.
Several other areas within the region had reportedly been affected by similar aerial attacks.
“Given the severity of the situation, the CHR Cordillera Administrative Region has taken cognizance of the matter and will launch a thorough investigation in the affected areas to assess the extent of the impact and to ensure that the rights of the affected communities are upheld and protected,” the Commission said.
“The International Humanitarian Law, particularly the Geneva Convention, provides clear guidelines on the conduct of armed conflict. Article 48 mandates that all parties distinguish between civilian and military targets, explicitly prohibiting attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. Article 51 further prohibits indiscriminate attacks that fail to differentiate between military objectives and civilians, including aerial bombings. These provisions are critical in safeguarding human rights during conflict,” it added.
