CHR tells CPP, AFP to respect human rights amid reports on attacks vs. civilian properties

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday urged the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People's Army, as well as state forces to always observe the rule of law through respecting the international humanitarian law and the domestic statutes.

The CHR's call came after the Armed Forces of the Philippines submitted a report about the alleged attacks of the communist rebels against civilian properties, which were mostly done through torching.

The AFP also submitted the report to Signe Poulsen, representative to the Philippines of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, as well as to Gustavo Gonzales, UN resident and humanitarian coordinator in the Philippines.

The CHR said it would assert its independent and impartial position in looking into the reports.

"While CHR stands firm for the liberty of people to believe in specific ideologies, one's freedom to act on these beliefs should be guided by what is lawful and respectful of the rights of others," CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said in a press statement.

"As private individuals and organizations within the Philippines, CHR calls on the CPP-NPA to adhere to the rule of law by respecting IHL and our domestic statutes in the country, in the same manner that we equally call on the government and its forces to respect our laws and the rights of all," she added.

The communist group earlier said the aggrieved owners in the destruction of properties were all compensated, adding that in mounting military offensives, the NPA always ensures that no civilian will be hurt.

In response to the CHR's call, CPP information officer Marco Valbuena said it is the NPA's sworn duty to protect and defend the masses against the oppressors.

He assured the CHR that the NPA is committed to uphold Protocol II of the Geneva Conventions, which the NDFP (National Democratic Front of the Philippines) has declared its adherence to.

The CHR reminded all parties that respect for human rights is a universal duty, which varies in degrees of obligation.

It noted that its office condemns all forms of violence and terrorism being committed by any party.

"We expect the government to hold the primary duty to respect, protect, and fulfill the human rights of all, but, even as private individuals, we have the obligation to respect the rights of others in the exercise of our own rights," De Guia said.

"At this point, CHR shall continue to be open to both sides—State and non-State parties—in discovering the truth and demanding accountability from the perpetrators of these violations in line with our mandate as an independent national human rights institution," she added.—AOL, GMA News