The CHR fact-finding mission is in response to a resolution approved by the provincial government of Surigao del Sur asking the CHR to look into the alleged abuses by the military against Lumads. Progressive groups will hold a parallel solidarity mission to the province.
Tags: Philippine military
Court Affirms Melissa Roxas’s Abduction, Torture Claim But Clears Arroyo, Military
By RONALYN V. OLEA
The Court of Appeals has granted the Filipino-American activist’s amparo and habeas data petitions, saying that Melissa Roxas’s story was credible. But it also pointed out that Roxas failed to show that the military was behind her abduction and torture, hence President Arroyo and elements of the armed forces cannot be made respondents in the case.
Under the Gun: Lumad School Rises Amid Conflict, Military Atrocities
Special Report | Last of Three Parts Even in times of crisis and conflict, Alcadev, the nonformal school for tribal children in Surigao del Sur, carries on with its mission. Indeed, the recent militarization in Surigao that resulted in massive displacements of Lumad residents proved to be quite a learning experience for the students, if only it weren’t so traumatic.
Under the Gun: A Pattern of Military Atrocities in Lianga (Sidebar)
LIANGA, Surigao del Sur — The established pattern of military atrocities in several villages in this province sent the Manobo folk packing up to leave this year, even at the mere sight of soldiers. Karapatan-Caraga said that on June 10, some 70 soldiers of the 58th IB came and lived in a number of Lumad…
Video: ‘Disrespectful’ US Troops in Philippines ‘Treat Us Like Dogs’
US Troops ‘Treat Us Like Dogs’
American Troops in Philippines Involved in Combat Operations – Ex-Navy Officer
In a press conference in Quezon City on Wednesday, former Lt. Senior Grade Mary Nancy Gadian said US troops gather intelligence information – through the use of special intelligence equipment – and participate in the planning of combat operations.
Groups, DepEd Worried Over Militarization of Lumad School; Congress Probe Sought
The occupation by the military of a nonformal school for tribal children in Surigao del Sur has raised concern among officials, with the Department of Education suggesting this week that those threatened by the presence of the soldiers should seek the court’s protection through the writ of amparo.
Under the Gun: School Helps Build Lumad Communities — to Military’s Consternation
Special Report | Second of Three Parts A significant impact of an Alcadev education is that it “bridges the knowledge between students and parents.” It thus helps the development of Lumad communities. But the military is suspicious, branding the school and what it does as communist, harassing not just the teachers and students but its foreign supporters and visitors as well.
Under the Gun: School for Tribal Children in Surigao Bears Brunt of Militarization
Special Report | First of Three Parts A non-formal school in Surigao del Sur has shown how education serves as a tool to unite and develop Lumad communities. Now, amid the evacuation by Manobo villages triggered by the presence of soldiers, the school is being targeted by the military, claiming that it is an “NPA school.”
By Justifying Torture of Melissa Roxas, Regime Violates International Agreements
Freedom from torture is a non-derogable right, meaning that states cannot violate this right under any circumstances, even in a state of emergency or martial law. By insisting that Melissa Roxas is a communist guerrilla, the Arroyo regime not only practically admits that it tortured her — it seeks to justify the atrocity, thus violating the very international instruments that it had earlier agreed on.
Video: CHR Hearing on Melissa Roxas Torture Turns Into a Witchhunt
Video: Melissa Hearing Turns Into a Witchhunt