The Commission on Human Rights expresses alarm on the alleged forced entry of bolo-wielding paramilitary group Alamara inside the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) Haran Compound where 500 Lumad evacuees, including 236 children and infants are housed. The incident happened following the resolution passed by the Region XI’s Regional Peace and Order Council ordering the closure of the UCCP Haran, citing alleged violations committed inside the shelter. The allegations include child abuse, serious illegal detention offenses while engaging in human trafficking, and “various terroristic activities.”

In light of the growing trend of red-tagging of groups that stand with the plight of the vulnerable sectors, we reiterate our reminder against such labels that pose threats and attacks to groups and communities. In times of conflict, churches are zones of peace. Providing refuge and sanctuary to the disadvantage is considered as integral to their spiritual mission and insulated from political ideologies or leanings.

In any assertions of the government, the need to ensure the best interest and welfare of the children must be given utmost priority and consideration. Being displaced from their ancestral lands, they are still recovering from the toll of disruption and conflict. The Lumad children’s rights to life, survival, development, education, and to be with their families need to be guaranteed at all times.

Lumads are the party most affected by the closure order as well as any subsequent actions that will disrupt their lives. Hence, we urge the government to dialogue with the vulnerable indigenous people’s group constantly to provide a durable solution that will tackle the roots of their grievances and demonstrate genuine compassion and empathy in their recurring struggles. Given the injustices they have already suffered, a comprehensive solution must be undertaken to restore their dignity and to empower them in their pursuit of self-determination. For our part, the CHR – Region XI deployed a quick response team Sunday, January 26, to probe the truth. A dialogue was conducted and the investigation shall continue to ensue. ###