The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses grave concern over the conflict of factions in Maguindanao del Sur which has resulted in at least 6,000 displaced residents. As the country’s national human rights institution, we urge the local and national government to work towards addressing this matter, before more individuals and families are forced to evacuate their area in order to seek safer grounds.

According to reports, the hostilities stem from the conflict between two armed groups in Mamasapano town, and has affected the adjoining towns of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Salibo and Saydona Mustapha.

CHR echoes the call of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Human Rights Commission (BHRC), which reminds the warring Moro factions to “promot[e] peace, compassion, and respect for human rights.” At a time where Ramadan had just recently concluded, we must remain rooted in the values of mutual understanding as a foundational pillar to sustain the harmony amongst communities.

We recognize the efforts of the Philippine government for deploying peacekeepers in the area. We will continuously monitor the situation to ensure that the residents remain safe and that they are provided access to basic necessities.

The Commission calls for an urgent humanitarian response to the armed conflict. We hope that the human rights situation in the area will progress towards upholding the protection of the civilians and that they are provided with a safer environment where they are able to exercise their fundamental freedoms without fear for their safety.###