ARMY units under the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) marked the start of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Month with flag-raising ceremonies emphasizing their commitment to upholding the principles of IHL amid ongoing security challenges.
The main celebration was held at Camp Macario B. Peralta Jr. in Jamindan, Capiz on Monday, August 4, 2025, led by Major General Michael Samson, commander of the 3ID.
Officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resources recited the AFP Soldiers’ Pledge of Reaffirmation and Commitment to IHL during the ceremony.
This year’s theme is “Galvanizing Commitment to International Humanitarian Law: Challenges and Opportunities in the Asia-Pacific Region.”
Samson read the message of General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) who reaffirmed the AFP’s adherence to IHL.
“As we celebrate IHL Month, let this serve as a reaffirmation of our pledge to protect the rights and lives of non-combatants, to treat all persons humanely, without discrimination, and to uphold the rule of law, even amidst the fog of conflict. Most of all, let our humanity remain despite conflict,” Brawner said in his message.
In observance of IHL Month, the 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion and 12th Infantry (Lick 'Em) Battalion under the 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade (301Bde), Camp General Adriano Hernandez, Barangay San Jose Dingle, Iloilo, conducted simultaneous flag-raising ceremonies to reaffirm their commitment to lawful military conduct and the protection of civilians during armed conflict.
At Camp Monteclaro in Barangay Igtuba, Miagao, Iloilo, the 61IB, under Lieutenant Colonel Jekyll Julian D. Dulawan, also held a flag-raising ceremony.
The activity featured a mass recitation of the Soldier’s Pledge of Commitment, reaffirming the battalion’s adherence to IHL and protection of civilians during conflict.
“This ceremony is a reaffirmation of our pledge to conduct operations with respect to human dignity and the rule of law. Observing IHL is not only a legal obligation but a moral one, especially for us in the uniformed service,” said Dulawan.
Meanwhile, the 12IB, based in Camp General Ceferino Carreon, Barangay Libot, Calinog, Iloilo, led by Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, also held a simultaneous flag-raising ceremony as part of the observance.
As part of their celebration, the unit honored retired Staff Sergeant Rendo Tungala for his dedication and service with a plaque of recognition, symbolizing the values of professionalism and commitment in the Philippine Army.
The month-long IHL commemoration, held every August pursuant to Executive Order 134, Series of 1999, aims to raise awareness on international humanitarian standards that regulate armed conflict and protect civilians and combatants no longer participating in hostilities.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of National Defense alternate as hosts of the annual celebration.
Army units under the 3ID continue to lead efforts in promoting lawful military conduct and the protection of human rights, calling on all sectors to support humanitarian values during times of conflict. (Leo Solinap)