The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses deep concern over the 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 (NPA).

According to reports, these bombing and accompanying combat operations have impacted approximately 2.700 residents in Barangay Maling and neighboring barangays Dao-angan and Balantoy in Balbalan, Kalinga. Additionally, several other areas within the region have reportedly been affected by similar aerial attacks.

Given the severity of the situation, the CHR Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) has taken cognisance 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 International Humanitarian Law (IHL), 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.

While the investigation is still underway, it is important to note the potential consequences of such bombings, which may extend beyond immediate physical harm. Civilians’ lives could be put at serious risk, livelihoods could be disrupted, and schools could be forced to close, potentially inflicting physical, emotional, and psychological trauma on the affected communities.

In line with this, the Commission calls on authorities, especially those in the security sector, to prioritise 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.

In times of conflict, it is the vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalised 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. ###

Peace not war!