CHR probes NPA use of child warrior

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has launched an investigation into the case of a minor allegedly used by the New People’s Army (NPA) and reportedly killed in an encounter with government forces last week.

In a statement, the CHR denounced the use of child soldiers by armed groups, adding that such constitutes a war crime.

“Nothing can justify this deplorable practice,” Jacqueline de Guia, the CHR spokesperson, said.

“Under the International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, even non-state armed groups must respect the prohibition to recruit and use children in armed conflict and hostilities,” De Guia said.

The CHR said the young NPA member killed on Dec. 2 in Misamis Oriental province was a 16-year-old boy from Gingoog City.