The Commission on Human Rights lauds the Sulu Provincial Task Force on Ending Local Armed Conflict (PTF-ELAC) for the extensive rehabilitation of a former battleground of state and non-state armed groups to enable the safe return of residents 20 years after losing their homes, leaving them internally displaced.

Adhering to the United Nations Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have a “right to assistance from authorities to a dignified and safe return, resettlement or local integration, including help in recovering lost property and possessions.”

CHR recognizes the crucial role played by PTF-ELAC in the holistic approach to rebuild the once devastated Barangay Bakung, Patikul in Sulu. Included in their infrastructure and livelihood projects are a village hall, a 2.4-kilometer farm-to-market road, a learning center, a public toilet, a water system, streetlights, as well as egg-farming facilities to provide livelihood to the 118 households in the community.

Barangay Bakung chief Hammisa Anuddin said, “We never thought that we can return to our place. We were IDPs for 20 years.”

CHR is one with the residents in their expression of gratitude to the municipal government and Sulu PTF-ELAC. Beyond recovery, the dignified return to their homes grants them new opportunities and an invigorated outlook at life.

CHR continues its support of the government’s commitment to assist and protect displaced citizens, especially those affected by armed conflict and disasters.