Protect human rights in the pursuit of peace and justice

Statement on the Sulu crisis and Davao bombing

On September 02, 2016 a bomb exploded in Davao City and killed 16 individuals and left 67 others injured. The bombing was claimed by the Abu Sayyaf- a terrorist group pursued by the government troops after it beheaded an 18-year old man hostage when his family failed to give ransom in exchange for his release. 

Meanwhile, the ongoing military pursuit against the terrorist group and rescue operation of the remaining hostages in Sulu caused more than one thousand (1, 000) civilians to leave their homes and stay in evacuation centers for fear of being caught in the crossfire. 

We strongly condemn these senseless acts of violence that caused the loss of lives and ignited widespread fear and raised anti-Muslim sentiments among peoples in the country. Violence and atrocities like these is gradually destroying the remaining social fabric and therefore has no space in a civilized society like Philippines.  

As we extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to the families, relatives and friends of the victims of the explosion, we also call for the government to:

(1) provide immediate support and medical attention to the injured and their families; 

(2) facilitate a thorough and objective investigation of the bombing while strictly adhering to due process and protection of human rights in its pursuit of the perpetrators; and 

(3) gear its response to the current situation towards improving unity and solidarity among its peoples.

As we support the pursuit for a peaceful Mindanao, we demand to uphold civilian supremacy: fundamental human rights shall be respected and protected at all times and most especially in times of conflict. 

The acts of terror are geared to create confusion, irrational fear and hatred among the people. Hence, we ask the public to remain steadfast, calm and vigilant in this crucial time. 

May peace be upon us all.

Adonna Orquillas

Officer-in-Charge, Lanao Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (LAHRA)
Telephone Number: 221-3769, Mobile Number: 09356659608

Signed:

Alyansa ng Kabataang Mindanao para sa Kapayapaan (AKMK)

Lig-ong Hiniusang Kusog sa Kabos Dakbayan (LIHUK)

Mindanao Peoples’ Peace Movement (MPPM)

Ranao Tri-People Movement for Genuine Peace and Development (RTMGPD)

Sumpay Mindanao, Inc. (SMI)

September 4, 2016