The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has underscored the importance of “focusing on humanitarian values amidst armed conflict and during any crisis, such as the current pandemic.”
It stressed its point as the country commemorates the “International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Month” this month of August.
It said the theme of this year’s observance is “Upholding the Law of Armed Conflict Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic: Protecting Humanity for Healing and Recovery."
In the Philippines, it said the whole month of August is recognized as IHL month with every 12th day of the month declared as “IHL Day.”
In its social media post, the CHR said that for healing and recovery to start, it is important for the government to prioritize humanitarian efforts and to allow peace to flourish in communities so that everyone will have an equal chance to heal and live a life of dignity.
"IHL sets the rules and limits in the conduct of armed conflict to protect non-combatants or individuals no longer participating in hostilities," it said.
It called the attention of the government on the "deplorable" involvement of children in situations of armed conflict. It urged an immediate stop to the recruitment and enlistment of children in acts of war.
"Children must be protected and nurtured, not used in battlefields where they may suffer irreversible harm," it stressed.
At the same time, the CHR lamented the attacks made against civilians, displacement of communities, and mistreatment or denial of the basic rights of persons detained in relation to armed conflict.
Despite the standards set in place by the IHL, it said there are reports of continued destruction of private properties by communist rebels. It urged them to respect the rule of law, as it stressed that all those who violate the law -- whether they be state or non-state actors -- must be held accountable for their actions.
"This IHL month is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to the values of a just and peaceful society that has basic respect for norms and laws," the CHR said.
"While the State has the ultimate duty to ensure compliance to IHL particularly State forces, non-State groups alike have the responsibility to adhere to the law and prevent violations and casualties," it added.