Army renews commitment

THE 4th Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army renewed their commitment on adherence to human rights in time of the 67th year celebration of the Universal Declaration of the Human Rights at Camp Evangelista, Patag Thursday morning.

The oath of adherence to human rights was followed by ceremonial signing of the wall of commitment by the military personnel and civilian employees of 4ID.

Human Rights Officer of 4ID Brigadier General Paul Atal said that it is important for every soldier to be reminded to always adhere to human rights especially those in the combat operations.

“We normally use the chain of command sa amin kasi di pwede mabantayan up to the lowest. We order the brigade then the battalion,” Atal said.

“We consider human rights advocacy as an order and that we have to follow, but it is challenging to monitor our personnel assigned in the field,” Atal added.

He said the commander is always tasked to remind the troops to always abide and uphold human rights in all their operations.

Atal said while the army is performing its duty, accusations on violating human rights are thrown at them to discredit their integrity being the protector of the people and the state.

“Expected na natin yan. Basta sa amin lang ginagawa natin yung role natin and that is to protect the people,” Atal said.

Atal said agencies tasked to investigate human rights violations should be fair in handling cases.

“In those times that we have made hard decisions, we as protector of the people and the state must hold our selves accountable to the rules of conduct in adherence to the international law, human rights and rule of law,” Atal said.

Meanwhile, Army Corporal Adonis Jess Lupiba, who was recently freed by the New People’s Army, said that while he was at the camp of the rebel group, he experienced violations on his right.

“Ang pagposas sa akong mga kamot ug ang pagbuhat sa mga butang nga against my will for me is a violation of my right. Ila kong gi-brainwash pero nasa akong huna-huna sundalo ko,” Lupiba said.

Lupiba said yielding himself at the hands of the NPA in order to protect the rights of the civilians during the attack in Gingoog City in July this year, is what he claimed as his primarily role being a soldier.

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