UNICEF, MILF meet on child soldiers

MANILA, Philippines - The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front met on Monday to discuss the progress on the implementation of the 2009 UN-MILF Action Plan to eliminate recruitment of children as combatants.

“UNICEF recognizes armed conflict as a grievous violation of child rights. Children are affected by armed violence in different ways – they can be recruited as child soldiers, killed, injured and be deprived of access to basic services, including education and healthcare,” UNICEF Philippines representative Lotta Sylwander said.

“Children living in conflict areas in the Philippines are among the most vulnerable, and together with its partners, UNICEF is working for all of their rights to be realized and protected,” Sylwander added.

The UNICEF is also conducting orientation in 31 MILF base commands and seven front commands in Mindanao for the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces commanders and troops on the action plan.