The Commission on Human Rights reiterates its concern over the continued closure of Lumad schools in the Davao region.

It is part of the government’s responsibility to make sure that these children, who are also indigenous people (IP), are able to properly exercise their right to education. As is stated in Republic Act No. 11188, or the Special Protection of Children in Situation of Armed Conflict Law, children should be protected from all forms of abuse and violence. This protection, however, should not come at the expense of their other rights, as such the right to education.

The CHR would also like to repeat its reminder that any allegations that Lumad schools are being used as tools for recruitment for rebel groups need to go through the proper channels and due process. This applies to other kinds of rumors or allegations against these schools for indigenous people. Accusations and malicious misinformation can lead to harassment, disenfranchisement, and needless violence. The methods in which the government addresses security risks should not lead to the creation of new ones, especially because both children and IPs are vulnerable sectors of society.

Priority should be given to the development of the students and the communities affected by these closures. The Department of Education (DepEd) needs to determine whether there are enough schools near Lumad communities, and if these schools are capable of addressing the needs of those in their jurisdiction.

We call on the DepEd to re-examine these closures and to seek open dialogue with Lumads communities. Solutions to complex problems such as those these closures are trying to address cannot be one-note—they require study, cooperation, and a proper assessment of a community’s needs and problems. As such, government agencies must work in tandem to ensure all rights are protected and fulfilled, without sacrificing one for another.###