European NGO Asks DND for IP Leader’s Protection

BY ARTHUR L. ALLAD-IW
Northern Dispatch
Bulatlat.com

The International Hydropower Association , an international non-government organization (NGO) based in the United Kingdom, urged the Department of National Defense (DND) to extend protection to leaders of the Cordillera People’s Alliance and investigate the threats on their lives.

BAGUIO CITY (246 kms. north of Manila)— A letter from the United Kingdom (UK)-based non-government organization (NGO) International Hydropower Association to the Department of National Defense (DND) urging protection to leaders of a militant organization in the Cordillera region has not been acted upon since last February.

The International Hydropower Association is an association of organizations and professionals in 83 countries. It advances hydropower’s role in meeting the water and energy needs of the world. Founded in 1995 through the initiative of the UNESCO’s international Hydrological Programme, it aims to advance knowledge on all aspects of hydropower and to promote its good practice.

Richard Taylor, Executive Director of the International Hydropower Association, wrote DND Secretary Avelino J. Cruz on Feb. 23 to investigate the threats against Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA) chairperson Joan Carling and her colleagues.

Taylor learned that Carling received death threats in connection with her activities as the CPA chairperson.

“I do not know of the details and substance of these claims, but I know Ms. Carling through her activities relating to dams and development,” Taylor said in his letter.

“I write to ask your assistance to look into this situation, and afford Ms. Carling and her colleagues any necessary protection that you see fit,” he adds.

The DND referred the letter to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Lt. General Romeo Tolentino who, in turn, forwarded Mr. Taylor’s request to Supt. Raul Gonzales, regional director of the Philippine National Police-Cordillera Autonomous Region (PNP-CAR) on March 17. The PNP-CAR transmitted the letter to the Baguio City Police Office on March 22.

The PNP-CAR has conducted an investigation but no updates have yet been released. Northern Dispatch / (Bulatlat.com)