14th Infantry Battalion violates rights of children in Eastern Samar

By KATUNGOD-SB-KARAPATAN
March 7, 2011

TACLOBAN CITY  –  February 2011 saw the massive military operations conducted by the 14th Infantry Battalion in Giporlos, Eastern Samar.

Last February 10, 2011 the Regional Alliance was able to document a case of threat/harassment/interrogation and divestment of property against two children. These two children, aged 17 years old, were on their way to get their copra from their farm when a group of operating soldiers from the Bravo Company of the 14th IB passed by. These two children were interrogated and questioned on the whereabouts of the New People’s Army (NPA). Before the soldiers left, the “sundang” of these children were taken by the soldiers, their pictures were taken and they were threatened not to tell anyone especially the Barangay Officials of Brgy. Huknan, or else “they will be abducted”. Out of fear, the children hurriedly went home.

“This case is a clear indicator that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) never respect the rights of children. International and local laws and statutes give special protection to children and they are considered as “zones of peace’ and they should be given high respect at all times” said Kathrina R. Castillo, Head of the Documentation Committee of KATUNGOD-SB-KARAPATAN.

“The Regional Alliance had documented many cases such as these and it is alarming. This case reveals the true face of IPSP Bayanihan, the new counter-insurgency program of the US-Aquino III Regime. From the words of the document it gives emphasis on respect for human rights but as they say, “you cannot teach old dog new tricks”, the practice of the military of violating the human rights of the people especially the children continue” added Castillo.