Human Rights Commission Condemns Communist Terrorist Group's Attack on Unarmed Soldiers

Strategic Insights -

The Philippine Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has expressed its deep concern over the attack by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) on a group of unarmed soldiers in Jipapad, Eastern Samar. The CHR has condemned the use of anti-personnel mines by the terrorist group, which resulted in the killing and injury of several soldiers. The agency has assured that it will investigate the incident and seek justice for the victims.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CHR has deplored the "nonstop violation" of international humanitarian law (IHL) by the CPP-NPA-NDF through the use of anti-personnel mines.
  • Mark Siapno, deputy spokesperson of the CHR, stated that the use of improvised explosive devices, such as landmines, violates the spirit and principle of the IHL.
  • The CHR has extended its deepest condolences to the families of the soldiers killed by the terrorist group and assured that it will seek justice for the victims.
  • The CPP-NPA-NDF must be held accountable for the crimes they have perpetrated against the people, in violation of the IHL and other human rights laws, according to Siapno.
  • The attack on the unarmed soldiers was described as a "blatant violation" of the IHL by Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso, commander of the Army's 8th Infantry Division.
  • The victims were carrying pieces of wood they gathered to build their camp, and none of them were armed, according to village official Eddie Nuncio.

Statistics:

  • Several unarmed soldiers were killed and injured in the incident.
  • The CHR has condemned the use of anti-personnel mines by the CPP-NPA-NDF.
  • The agency will investigate the incident and seek justice for the victims.

Sources:

  • "CHR slams Reds for using mines" by The Manila Times (Manila, Philippines), July 13, 2021.