All-out war vs MILF to result in rights crisis, CHR warns

MANILA, Philippines – The government was warned yesterday that waging an all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) would result in “grave humanitarian and human rights crisis” in Mindanao.

Chairwoman Leila de Lima of the Commission on Human Right oyo to declare an all-out war against the MILF.

“We (CHR) stand by our position that there is no substitute to a peaceful solution,” she said.

De Lima said all-out war must only be declared as a “last resort” after all peaceful means have failed.

The government should focus on arresting leaders and members of the MILF responsible for the attack in several towns in Mindanao, she added.

Earlier this week, De Lima tagged as “terrorist act” the attacks of the MILF, Estrada had earlier called for the suspension of the peace talks with the MILF.

Meanwhile, Army commanders running after the MILF that attacked in Cotabato and Lanao del Norte provinces have been ordered to strictly abide by the rule of law, a military official said.

Col. Daniel Lucero, Armed Forces civil military operation group chief, said the ground army commanders emphasized their respect for human rights in war against the rogue MILF commanders and their followers, who perpetrated the attacks and carnage on the civilians in Lanao del Norte.

“Emotions are indeed high, compulsion to get even is blazing, and to take actions without regard to cherished moral values are being pressed,” he said.

“However, Army soldiers were reminded that they should not be provoked to pursue punitive actions against MILF perpetrators beyond the Army’s treasured moral principles.” – Reinir Padua, Roel Pareño