NBI wraps up probe on lumad killings

MANILA, Philippines - The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has finished its investigation into human rights violations against members of the lumad tribe in Mindanao.

The NBI submitted a copy of its fact-finding report to the Department of Justice on Thursday.

The report contained recommendations from various groups, including the military and non-government organizations.

The probe covered alleged crimes committed against the tribal community, particularly the incidents at the United Church of Christ in the Philippines Haran compound in Davao City; in Talaingod, Davao del Norte;  Pangantucan in Bukidnon, and Lianga in Surigao del Sur.

The lumads claimed Army soldiers and paramilitary forces were involved in operations against their community, which resulted in the death of at least three of their leaders.

Emerito Samarca, Dionel Campos and Aurelio Sinzo were killed in the incidents.

At least 207 members of the lumad tribe in Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte have fled their homes since Nov. 14 due to military operations, tribal leaders Bae Anagan and Imelda Balandres told a press conference on Thursday.

Capt. Roberto Florido, spokesman for the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion, denied reports of shelling in communities, saying they were only conducting routine patrol operations. – Ghio Ong, Ben Serrano