Kieth Absalon —PHOTO FROM NATHALIE ABSALON’S FACEBOOK PAGE
MANILA, Philippines — The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) sought justice for the victims of the landmine explosion in Masbate which resulted in the death of Far Eastern University football player Kieth Absalon and his cousin Nolven Absalon
“Because of its persistent, indiscriminate and inhumane nature, the use, manufacture, and sale of anti-personnel land mines is banned by the 1997 Ottawa Treaty (Mine Ban Convention) of which the Republic of the Philippines is a signatory together with a vast majority of civilized nations,” IBP national president Domingo Cayosa said in a statement.
“We strongly condemn the use of anti-personnel land mines, seek justice for the innocent victims, and demand full accountability and punishment for those who callously deployed the land mines,” Cayosa added.
The Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army (NPA) have taken “full responsibility for the tragedy” in Masbate and declared “deep remorse” for the “untimely and unnecessary” deaths of the victims.
“No goal or ideology can justify a blatant disregard of the laws and conscience of humanity. Even in extreme conditions of war, the principles of decency and humanity must be honored,” Cayosa said.
“Let us be firm and united in banishing anti-personnel landmines from the Philippines and in the world. Let us work together to uphold our laws and the principles of humanity to achieve genuine and lasting peace in our beloved country,” he added.