AFP welcomes creation of human rights ‘super body’

MANILA, Philippines – The military on Tuesday said the creation of a super body that will investigate old and new cases of human rights violations is a “positive development” to its commitment to implement human rights in its operations.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines welcomes the inclusion of the Chief of Staff AFP along with the presidential human rights committee together with other line government agencies in an inter-agency body on human rights,” the military said in a statement.

“This is a positive development in our commitment to further enhance the incorporation of International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights, and Rule of Law in our operations and daily dealings with the people as our soldiers fulfil their mandate of serving and protecting our citizens,” it added.

It noted that the AFP even elevated the leadership of the Human Rights Office into a star-rank position.

The established AFP Human Rights Office was in pursuit of “effectively and efficiently” address the human rights violation cases reported to the AFP.

“Since then, the AFP HR Office has been consistent in its campaign programs pertaining to human rights, international humanitarian law and the Rule of Law,” the AFP said.

The President signed Administrative Order No. 35 on November 22,which will form a nine-member Inter-agency committee on extra-legal killings, enforced disappearances, torture and other grave violations of the right to life, liberty and security of persons.”