PRESS STATEMENT
15 December 2017

Statement of the Commission on Human Rights on the further extension of Martial Law in Mindanao until December 2018

The Commission on Human Rights respects the prerogative of the President, as well as the subsequent vote of the Congress, to extend the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao. We, however, continue to stress the need to address accounts of human rights violations on the ground.

Despite recent reports on the situation in Marawi City now being normal, the communities still bear the damage and consequences of the armed conflict. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) continue to occupy shelter sites in Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, as well as other areas in Northern Mindanao, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and even Metro Manila.

There is also a need to investigate allegations of looting by the military, unlawful/arbitrary arrests, military presence in IDP camps, cases of profiling, military harassment, enforced disappearance, torture, and extrajudicial killings. We also urge the government to hold to account both state and non-state actors responsible for the atrocities committed against the local residents.

The CHR commits to extend all the possible assistance to ‘Task Force Bangon Marawi’ in rebuilding the communities and ensure that IDPs’ rights to access to education, shelter, food, water, and proper sanitation among others are fulfilled by the government. Through close coordination with the Regional Human Rights Commission and relevant line agencies, we will continue to provide recommendations on how to ensure fast and responsive delivery of services to affected communities aligned with human rights treaties and standards.

Consistent with our stance, the Commission believes that the police and military can address threats of terrorism and lawless violence without Martial Law. However, in respect of Legislative concurrence, we are hopeful that the intent of the extension will not be tarnished by human rights violations. It is now incumbent upon the government to observe and ensure the safeguards of the Constitution and our laws to prevent abuses.

The Commission, for its part, will closely monitor its implementation and denounce any form of abuses, consistent with our mandate and oath of service to the Filipino people. ■

Contact Person:

Atty. Jacqueline Ann C. de Guia
Director, Public Affairs and Strategic Communication Office
Telephone No: (02) 928-5792 / 0917 591 9833
Email address: comms.chr@gmail.com