Violence in Kidapawan dispersal unjustifiable–IBP

Williamor A. Magbanua/Inquirer Mindanao File Photo

The death of and injuries to farmers in Kidapawan, North Cotabato cannot be justified, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) said in a statement.

Two people were killed and over 30 were injured, mostly farmers in the violent dispersal last April 1. The farmers are calling for government’s assistance after their crops were withered by the drought.

READ: Cops, farmers clash in Kidapawan; 2 dead

IBP, a mandatory organization of all lawyers in the Supreme Court’s Roll of Attorneys said the government should identify and prosecute those responsible for the violent dispersal.

“The Integrated Bar of the Philippines calls on the government, concerned agencies, authorities and personalities for an impartial and credible investigation to immediately determine the responsible and accountable characters in this tragedy and bring justice to the victims and their families,” Atty. Rosario T. Setias-Reyes, IBP National President said.

Authorities said the peasant groups that protested last April 1 were coerced by the New People’s Army (NPA).

Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza was earlier quoted as saying that the protesting farmers have no permit to hold a rally.

“Violence resulting to the loss of Filipino lives can never be justified,” the IBP said.

“May the lessons of this despicable incident be a wake up call to the government and to all Filipinos that violence is never the solution,” Setias-Reyes said. CDG

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