

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is now verifying complaints of human rights violation during military operations in Marawi City.

The CHR said that they have already tasked their personnel to monitor the situation from the time martial law was declared in Mindanao.

One thing they consider in battles the likes of Marawi siege is if the rules of engagement were followed.

“Para ma-ensure na yung karapatan nung mga nasa kabila ay meron ding respeto (This is to ensure that the rights of the other parties are also respected),” said CHR Policy Advisory Office OIC Atty. Gemma Parojinog.

The commission clarified they are concerned with the aspect of human rights whether they are soldiers or terrorists.

The CHR now hopes that the government will immediately rehabilitate the war-torn city.

“We are looking forward na meron nang pagtingin sa rehabilitasyon na inclusive at yung usapin ng mga IDP’s (internally displaced persons) ay mabigyan ng pansin sa tamang panahon (We look forward to efforts on rehabilitation that are inclusive and that attention will be given to issues concerning IDP’s),” said Parojinog

The commission also seeks for the lifting of martial law in Mindanao.

“Ngayon na wala nang threat (Now that there is no more threat), because the Constitution says imminent threat. In fact, the President declared that it is liberated already,” said the OIC. — Rey Pelayo | UNTV News & Rescue