DAR N. Samar
capacitates personnel to expedite SPLIT project
![DAR Northern Samar SPLIT orientation](dar-split-orientation.jpg)
Provincial
Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II), Jose Balberde,
is confident the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)
Northern Samar Provincial Office will hit its target in the
Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titiling
(SPLIT) project this year. |
By
GRACHELLE OBONG,
DAR
N. Samar
December 8, 2023
CATARMAN, Northern
Samar – To expedite the distribution of individual titles to
agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in this province, the
Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) conducted an orientation to
capacitate personnel working for the Support to Parcelization of
Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project.
Last week, newly hired
field engineers, legal officers and legal assistants underwent a
one-day orientation on the mandates of the project to foster an open
discussion of the adopted strategies from the field validation teams
(FVTs), and to mitigate the challenges encountered during the
conduct of documentation and validation.
During the said
orientation, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO
II), Jose Balberde, urged the field engineers to collaborate closely
with the provincial engineers and the Municipal Agrarian Reform
Program Officers (MARPOs), particularly during field operations.
“We need to maximize our
strategies so we could accomplish our targets before the year ends,”
said Balberde.
With additional personnel
working for the World Bank-funded SPLIT project, Balberde is
confident this province will be able to meet its targets for the
current year.
On the same occasion,
geodetic engineer, Jastin Romero, who is assigned at the Land Tenure
Service Division, gave specific instructions to the newly hired
engineers regarding their functions, specifically in accomplishing
the validation documents.
As of October this year,
Jessa Mae Moscare, SPLIT project’s Management Information System
(MIS) staff, reported that Northern Samar had already accomplished
2,673.3196 hectares in the registration of electronically-generated
titles, or 93 percent of its target for this year.
SPLIT project subdivides
awarded lands under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP)
covered by collective Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs)
to protect security of tenure and strengthen property rights of the
agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).
AI Smart
Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG), a breakthrough innovation for
zero-fuel, zero-emission power generation, unveiled at COP28
![AI Smart Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG)](AISEG.jpg)
Press Release
December 6, 2023
Dubai, UAE –
Imagine a world powered by zero fuel with the electricity source
being totally emission-free, highly efficient, and scalable.
This ambitious quest for
clean power generation to address the challenge of climate change
and accelerate the world’s journey to Net Zero is now a reality with
a breakthrough innovation of profound significance for mankind.
South Korea-based SEMP
Group and Abu Dhabi-based Global Solutions for Project Management
have launched this pathbreaking innovation that will shape the
future of clean energy – the AI Smart Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG)
at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Expo City Dubai,
UAE.
A beacon of hope, a
testament to human ingenuity, and a symbol of purpose-driven
innovation, AISEG is the result of nearly four years of research by
experts at the SEMP Research Institute, which is now entering
commercial application following its official launch at COP28.
Visitors to COP28’s Green
Zone at the Energy Transition Hub, a part of the Sustainability
District can witness first-hand live demonstrations of the
innovative technology that meets the aspirations of the world to cut
emissions and transition to Net Zero by 2050, in line with the goals
of the Paris Agreement.
Announcing the launch of
the technology for commercial application globally, Zakeya Alameri,
Founder and CEO of Global Solutions for Project Management, said:
“The world is convening in the UAE to find effective solutions for
mitigating the impact of climate change, with the COP28 Presidency
focusing on all pathways to curb the 22 Gigatons of emissions to
drive a fair, just, responsible, and well-managed energy transition.
“The AISEG technology
serves as a solution to meet the fast-growing demand for power
without fuel or emissions. It marks a milestone of profound
significance for the world and the future of clean energy – marking
a journey of innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment
to a sustainable tomorrow.”
She added: “Through this
innovative technology, we are underlining our commitment to
promoting and pushing the horizons of innovation and scientific R&D
to provide the best technological solutions. This is part of our
strategic goal to supporting the aspirations and ambitions of the
UAE to being an innovation center and a leading global destination
in the development of advanced Clean Energy solutions.”
Woohee Choi, CEO of SEMP
Research Institute Co., Ltd., said: “We are honoured to showcase our
invention, the world's first non-rotation type power generation
system that will transform how power is produced and consumed, at
COP28, where the world is seeking solutions to accelerate the
journey to Net Zero emissions. AISEG demonstrates our dedication to
innovative decarbonization, delivering efficient energy while
minimizing carbon emissions. By showcasing the technology at COP28,
we are further underlining the strong bilateral and technology
partnerships between the UAE and South Korea.”
The technology
breakthrough
A revolutionary power
generation technology, AISEG is an innovation like never before, one
that has the potential to transform how electricity is consumed.
AISEG works on fundamental electromagnetic principles and the
Inverse Square Law. Leveraging the principle of circular winding to
create stable magnetic fields, the application of AI logic signals
helps generate constant output frequency.
At the heart of AISEG is
the Theory of Bandwagoning and the practical application of
Biot-Savart’s Law and Faraday’s Law. A Super Magnet serves as a
foundational component of the AISEG technology. Beyond its primary
role, this technology holds potential for diversification into
various other applications. AISEG can be deployed at scale, is
mobile and adaptable, making it eminently applicable in any
situation – using an easy plug-and-play model. It will open doors to
a realm of possibilities, forging ahead of energy generation norms
and propelling us toward a carbon-zero future.
Zero-fuel, zero-emissions,
highest efficiency
Today, AISEG is the
world’s first successful system that generates higher efficiency
output compared to input power. With over 70 patents in 60
countries, AISEG does not have any rotating parts, does not produce
carbon or heat emissions, is self-powered and delivers outstanding
efficiency. It has a compact footprint and near-permanent lifespan -
a one-stop solution for the world's energy needs.
AISEG opens a market of
infinite value with application in every field, such as automobiles
by providing clean, emission-free power without fuel. Industries can
generate electricity without need for power transmission and home
appliances can be powered with an easy plug and play model. AISEG
also replaces the immense volume of fuel needed for ships, planes,
and carriers, and replaces every other power source at customised
power plants.
Aligning with the
priorities of COP28
Aligned with COP28 UAE's
core pillars, AISEG is central to climate mitigation efforts,
offering a green energy solution that curtails GHG emissions. It
supports global adaptation by facilitating a transition to
renewables, especially in challenging regions.
While primarily focused on
mitigation and adaptation, AISEG also indirectly addresses loss and
damage by aiming to reduce environmental harm and societal impacts
from non-renewable sources.
In addition to live demos
at COP28, visitors can also take part in discussions with experts.
SEMP Group and Global Solutions for Project Management also plan to
curate sessions to liaise with potential collaborators,
decision-makers, and investors, brainstorming strategies for the
mainstream adoption and assimilation of AISEG into existing and
future energy structures.
Zakeya Alameri concluded:
“At COP28, our strategy is to share our innovations, particularly in
the realm of AISEG, while aligning with the guiding criteria
pathways – Race to Zero, SBTi, and the UAE’s “Sustainable Companies
Climate Pledge. We believe that this is only the beginning. It is a
call to action, urging governments, industries, and individuals to
unite, invest, and collaborate in our quest for a cleaner,
sustainable world. AISEG invites the world to dream boldly, innovate
fearlessly, and forge a legacy that echoes through time.”
Peace Walk in Cotabato City:
Multi-Stakeholders unite
for Mindanao Week of Peace
![Mindanao Week of Peace](peace-walk.jpg)
By
HWPL Philippines
December 5, 2023
COTABATO CITY – As part of the Mindanao Week of Peace, a diverse
group of multi-stakeholders came together through a vibrant Peace
Walk held on December 2, 2023.
The event witnessed the participation of around 300 individuals from
23 organizations from different sectors including teachers,
students, community leaders, religious leaders, non-governmental
organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), youth,
women and the security sector.
The lively parade of colors commenced at the Cotabato State
University Campus Park, culminating at the in PC Hill, Cotabato
City. This significant gathering aimed to emphasize the collective
commitment to fostering peace and cooperation among the diverse
communities in Mindanao.
The Mindanao Week of Peace is annually celebrated from the last
Thursday in November to the first Wednesday of December through
Proclamation Order No. 127, issued by former President Gloria
Macapagal Arroyo. The event serves as a reminder of the power of
collective efforts aiming to “recognize the common aspirations of
Mindanaoans to live in peace, unity, and harmony with each other
regardless of status in life, religion or culture”.
Following the Peace Walk, a program unfolded at the 6CMO. LTC Dennis
C Almorato, Battalion Commander of 6CMO, gave welcoming remarks,
“Ang ating Peace Walk ngayon ay hindi lamang isang simpleng
paglalakad; ito'y isang malakas na pahayag na ang kapayapaan ay
hindi lamang isang pangarap kundi isang layunin na ating makakamit
nang magkakasama. Ang bawat hakbang natin ay simbolo ng ating lakas,
katatagan at pangakong magtulungan para sa isang mapayapang
kinabukasan (Our Peace Walk today is not just a simple walk; it is a
strong statement that peace is not only a dream but a goal that we
can achieve together. Every step we take is a symbol of our
strength, resilience and commitment to working together for a
peaceful future.)”
Guests of honor representing different sectors also gave solidarity
messages, including Archbishop Emeritus Antonio Ledesma from the
Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro; Sheikh Abdulrahim Sangkua of the
World Association for Alazhar Graduates; Mr. Philip Cuevas of
Cotabato State University - Indigenous Peoples Center; PLT Jay-ar
Rimorin, Assistant Company Commander of 44th Special Action Company,
4th Special Action Battalion, PNP Special Action Force; and Mr. Nash
Mantao, Youth Development Officer of US Agency for International
Development (USAID).
Students of Cotabato Rasheeda High School and Cotabato City Central
Pilot School Drum and Lyre Corps also showcased captivating
performances. The atmosphere resonated with positivity as doves were
released after the community singing, symbolizing the shared
aspiration for lasting peace. The celebration concluded with a
poignant Symbolic Gesture of Peace, as participants affix post-it
notes on the Freedom Peace Wall, echoing their commitment to
building lasting harmony.
Ms. Nicole Lopez, National Coordinator of HWPL Philippines, conveyed
the message of Chairman Lee Man-hee of Heavenly Culture, World
Peace, Restoration of Light, reminding everyone to strengthen the
call for cessation of end of wars, particularly the recent Israel-Hamas
conflict.
Hosted by the HWPL in partnership with Kutawato Greenland
Initiatives, the Mindanao Week of Peace festivities continued with a
series of impactful events, in conjunction with the observance of
the UN International Volunteer Day (December 5). On December 3, a
clean-up drive was organized in Manila Bay, underscoring the
importance of environmental responsibility and sustainability.
Additionally, from December 4-5, a Toy Donation Drive for Badjao
Community and a dedicated clean-up initiative were also held in
Cotabato City, reinforcing the spirit of giving and community
welfare.
NMP explores
collaborative opportunities with LGU of Ormoc City
![NMP Executive Director Victor A. Del Rosario with Ormoc City mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez](nmp-lucy-torres.jpg)
By National Maritime Polytechnic
December 1, 2023
TACLOBAN CITY – In a significant development, National Maritime
Polytechnic (NMP) Executive Director, Victor A. Del Rosario,
recently held a productive meeting with Ormoc City Mayor Lucy
Torres-Gomez. The City Mayor, who also serves as the chair of the
Regional Development Council (RDC) in Eastern Visayas, expressed her
commitment to support NMP's initiatives.
During the meeting, Mayor Torres-Gomez conveyed her willingness to
allocate a space or lot in Ormoc to enhance the accessibility of
NMP's programs and services, particularly benefiting the
constituents of Ormoc City.
Furthermore, discussions revolved around potential partnerships
between NMP and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Ormoc. Both
parties explored the prospect of jointly conducting Basic Safety
Training for Motorboat Handlers/Operators and Fisherfolks, with a
specific focus on Typhoon Preparedness.
This collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to advancing
maritime safety and skills development in the region. NMP and Ormoc
City look forward to fostering a mutually beneficial partnership
that will contribute to the overall growth and preparedness of the
local maritime community.
ICHRP applauds joint
statement towards re-start of peace talks between Manila government
and National Democratic Front of the Philippines
Press Release
December 1, 2023
MANILA – Seemingly
against all odds, the new Marcos Jr. administration sent out feelers
for peace talks to the National Democratic Front of the Philippines
(NDFP) within a few months of inauguration, and the result is the
announcement this week that a significant four-paragraph communique
was signed at the Oslo City Hall on November 23, 2023, to re-start
the on-again, off-again talks which began over 30 years ago.
“The International
Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines (ICHRP) unreservedly
applauds the Oslo Communique which will enable a renewed effort to
reach a just and lasting peace by addressing the root causes of the
social conflict in the Philippines,” said Peter Murphy, the ICHRP
Chairperson.
By choosing November 23
for the signing, the Marcos Jr. administration sent a firm rebuff to
the predecessor Duterte administration which terminated the peace
talks by Proclamation 360 on November 23, 2017.
The NDFP has always
expressed willingness to proceed with peace talks to address the
roots of the armed conflict , but was extremely disappointed when
Duterte closed the door. The negotiating panels were ready to sign a
substantive portion of the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and
Economic Reforms (CASER) and even after that, in 2018, were poised
to sign a major ceasefire agreement. Duterte’s decision began the
bloody “whole-of-nation” effort to crush the armed rebellion and the
civilian national democratic movement.
The Oslo Joint Statement
is the outcome of a series of informal discussions held in the
Netherlands and Norway starting in 2022, initiated by former Armed
Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel T.
Bautista (Ret.) and facilitated by the Royal Norwegian Government (RNG).
The initiative was personally welcomed by then NDFP Chief Political
Consultant Prof. Jose Ma. Sison.
“The joint statement is
the result of the Filipino people’s struggle for a genuine just and
lasting peace that remains strong and undeterred despite political
setbacks and ongoing counterinsurgency that cannot crush the
people’s united will to fight for change,” said Murphy.
“The Philippine security
forces captured, tortured and murdered the senior leadership team of
the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in August 2022, and
then the CPP founding chairperson Jose Maria Sison died on December
16, 2022, but the armed struggle and the broader national democratic
movement did not collapse. Rather it appears stronger than ever,”
said Murphy.
“But for the talks to
resume in good faith, the Marcos Jr. administration needs to meet a
bare minimum of requirements, starting with honoring past agreements
from the peace negotiations such as the Comprehensive Agreement for
Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL),
Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG), and a
repeal of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) of the GRP that designates
the NDFP as a terrorist organization.”
At a media conference on
November 28, the NDFP leaders said that they would propose the
release of imprisoned NDFP Peace Consultants as they are needed in
the talks, assurance of security and immunity guarantees for all
involved in the negotiations, the release of all political prisoners
– now 791, and the removal of the terrorist designation of the CPP,
NPA and NDFP by the Anti-Terrorism Council.
They explained that the
talks will start in 2024, no date has been set, and everything is on
the table. A very high priority for the NDFP is that all previous
agreements in the peace talks are reaffirmed.
Here is the full text of
the Joint Statement:
“Cognizant of the serious socioeconomic and environmental issues,
and the foreign security threats facing the country, the parties
recognize the need to unite as a nation in order to urgently address
these challenges and resolve the reasons for the armed conflict.
The
parties agree to a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed
conflict. Resolving the roots of the armed conflict and ending the
armed struggle shall pave the way for the transformation of the
CPP-NPA-NDFP.
The
parties acknowledge the deep-rooted socio-economic and political
grievances and agree to come up with a framework that sets the
priorities for the peace negotiation with the aim of achieving the
relevant socioeconomic and political reforms towards a just and
lasting peace. Such framework, that will set the parameters for the
final peace agreement, shall be agreed upon by both parties.
Consequently, we envision and look forward to a country where a
united people can live in peace and prosperity.”
It was signed by the GRP
represented by the Special Assistant to the President Secretary
Antonio Ernesto F. Lagdameo Jr.; Presidential Adviser on Peace,
Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr.; and Gen
Emmanuel T. Bautista (Ret.) and by the NDFP represented by National
Executive Council Member Luis G. Jalandoni; Negotiating Panel
Interim Chairperson Julieta de Lima; and Panel Member Coni K.
Ledesma. The signing was witnessed by the RNG Special Envoy Kristina
Lie Revheim. The RNG Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide also attended
the signing ceremony.
P67-million slope
protection built along Brgy. Rosalim
![Brgy. Rosalim slope protection structure](rosalim-slope-protection.jpg)
By
FLORSELISSA A. JUSAYAN
November 29, 2023
CALBAYOG CITY – The
Department of Public Works and Highways Samar First DEO has
completed the construction of the road slope protection structure
along Daang Maharlika in Brgy. Rosalim, San Jorge, Samar with a
contract amount of P67 million funded under the General
Appropriations Act (GAA) FY 2023.
The structure spans 231
linear meters and a height which varies from nine (9) to 18 meters.
The scope of work includes a Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP)
shouldering of the same length as the slope structure with a width
of 1.5 meters. Also, 13 solar LED street lights are installed and a
1.50 meter-wide paver blocks sidewalk.
Slope protection is built
to prevent soil erosion or rockfall that poses risks to
infrastructure, human life, and the environment.
Flood control structure
built to protect residents of Brgy. Basud
![Brgy. Basud flood control structure](basud-flood-control.jpg)
By
FLORSELISSA A. JUSAYAN
November 29, 2023
CALBAYOG CITY – The
flood control structure built along Jibatang River in Barangay Basud
has already been completed according to the Department of Public
Works and Highways Samar First DEO.
This additional structure
in the area has a length of 341.9 linear meters with a height of 2.7
meters. The scope of work includes Reinforced Concrete Pipe Culvert
(RCPC), 1.2 meter-wide walkway, 0.8-meter parapet, as well as the
installation of 17 solar street LED lights.
The said project was
allocated from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) FY 2023 with a
contract amount of P51 million.
Flood control structures
are built to protect coastal and riverbank areas, residences, and
other economically valuable areas, as well as its community. This
flood control structure is helpful to the 1,614 residents (2020
census) of the barangay especially during bad weather or heavy rains
where water inundates the area.
2 So. Leyte farmer
groups receive farm equipment from DAR
![](mabatas-irrigators-association.jpg)
The
Mabatas Irrigators Association based in Hinunangan, Southern
Leyte receives farm machineries, tool and farm inputs from the
Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). |
By
FEBE MARIE BERSABAL,
DAR Southern Leyte
November 24, 2023
HINUNANGAN, Southern
Leyte – Two agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs)
from this town are the latest recipients of modern farm machineries
and equipment, tools and farm inputs, from the Department of
Agrarian Reform (DAR) to augment their livelihood activities.
Last month, Provincial
Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Roderick Rances led
the turnover of three boat-type floating tillers, three turtle-type
floating tillers, a water pump with complete accessories, and
organic fertilizers to the Mabatas Irrigators Association (Mabatas
IA), held in Barangay Tahusan auditorium.
Mabatas IA, with 182
members, where 117 of them are agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs),
is into rice farming.
On the same occasion,
Rances also turned over two fish drying machines with accessories to
the Tabjon Settlers Farmers Association (TSFA) for their “tilanggit”
(danggit na tilapia) processing.
Aside from farming, TSFA,
based in Sitio Tabjon, Barangay Calagitan, is also into aquaculture,
particularly on tilapia production.
TSFA is composed of 50
members, wherein 39 of them are ARBs.
Rances explained that this
is part of DAR’s commitment to provide our ARBOs with livelihood and
agri-enterprise assistance geared towards increasing agricultural
production and income in keeping with Agrarian Reform Secretary
Conrado Estrella III’s advocacy on genuine land reform program.
Cecil Malubay, chief of
the Program Beneficiaries Development Division (PBDD) at the DAR
Southern Leyte Provincial Office, disclosed that these packages of
assistance amounted to ₱2.1 million taken from the Major Crop-based
Block Farm Productivity Enhancement and Sustainable Livelihood for
Disaster Affected Areas of the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity
Support (CRFPS) program.
Both chairpersons of the
recipient-ARBOs, Rogelio Engcoy and Gina Amac of Mabatas IA and TSFA,
respectively, expressed their gratitude and committed to maximize
the use of their newly-acquired machines in order to increase their
production and income.
Meanwhile, Mayor Reynaldo
Fernandez, who graced the said occasion with Vice Mayor Marian Pelen,
expressed his gratitude to the DAR for continuously supporting the
farmers by providing them with various assistance.
19 AFP lawyers trained
to apply the rules of war while providing legal advice
![AFP lawyers trained to apply the rules of war](icrc-afp-lawyers.jpg)
AFP
Chief of International Law and Special Projects Col. Vener
Malabanan III, Office of the Judge Advocate General (first row,
fourth from left), head of ICRC legal team Kelisiana Thynne
(first row, centre) and armed forces delegate of the ICRC
Ricardo Lucero Jr. (far right) and other ICRC staff with the 19
newly appointed second lieutenants of the Judge Advocate General
Service. (Photo: L. Arada, ICRC) |
By
ICRC
November 24, 2023
MANILA – Nineteen newly
recruited officers of the Judge Advocate General Service (JAGS), the
legal counsels of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP),
underwent a three-week training on international humanitarian law (IHL)
or the law of armed conflict.
Brig. Gen. Erwin Victoriano Machica III, Judge Advocate General,
requested the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to
conduct the training, held from 6 to 24 November 2023, at Camp
Aguinaldo in Quezon City. Those trained form the first batch to be
sent to operational units to provide legal advice on the conduct of
hostilities. Previously, JAGS officers were responsible for
discipline and administration in AFP.
The course touched on pressing topics such as general principles of
IHL regarding the regulation of weapons, detention during armed
conflicts, protection of health care and the natural environment,
domestic law on IHL and the law of naval warfare among others.
“The training aimed to ensure that participants understand the
ICRC’s humanitarian mandate and role in ensuring the rules of war
are respected, that they know what IHL is, can give advice on the
basic principles on the conduct of hostilities and that they
understand related domestic laws,” said Kelisiana Thynne, head of
the ICRC’s legal department in the Philippines.
Resource person Judge Samina Sampaco Macabando-Usman, an IHL trainer
from the Department of Justice, briefed participants about Republic
Act 9851 which penalizes crimes against IHL, genocide and other
crimes against humanity. Sessions also included role plays where
JAGS members drafted rules of engagement or standard operating
procedures for certain scenarios.
Training on management of deceased in emergencies also held
Meanwhile, a separate training session on forensics was also
organized for 21 AFP officers and staff on 15 and 16 November 2023
in Makati City. The training focused on general principles regarding
the protection and management of the deceased in emergencies,
especially during land and maritime conflicts, as well as the ICRC’s
work in the Philippines and its role in humanitarian forensics.
The ICRC discussed internationally accepted standards for the
documentation, recovery, transport, temporary burial or storage of
the deceased, and coordination with the parties concerned. AFP
officers and ICRC officials exchanged best practices and discussed
common challenges in the protection and management of the deceased.
The AFP and the ICRC also explored ways in which they can cooperate
in the future, such as for capacity-building activities.
The workshop aims to pave the way for more strategic cooperation at
the national level.
Prior to the event, the ICRC supported one AFP officer in 2022 to
attend an international course on the protection and management of
the deceased in Pakistan. Another AFP official will soon attend the
same course in December 2023. Material support will also be given
next week to the AFP, through the donation of 200 body bags.
The training sessions are in line with the memorandum of
understanding signed between AFP and the ICRC in 2021 to enhance the
two institutions’ cooperation in the effective implementation of IHL,
and its integration into military teaching, systems and processes.
Karapatan on the Marcos
Jr. admin’s amnesty program
Press Release
November 24, 2023
QUEZON CITY – Human
rights alliance Karapatan takes exception to the Marcos Jr.
government’s recently announced amnesty program for its failure to
recognize and address the social, political and economic roots of
the armed conflict in the Philippines. Instead, its focus is on
surrender, totally ignoring why persons have resorted to taking up
arms in the first place. It is a shallow and tangential approach
that will guarantee not the end but the continuance of armed
conflict.
Would-be amnesty grantees
are enticed to surrender, and thereafter trapped in a web of
self-incrimination. They are obliged or forced to admit to
membership in the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New
People’s Army (NPA) and the National Democratic Front of the
Philippines (NDFP) and the latter’s so-called front organizations of
having committed a number of anti-government actions, which may
include activities that do not involve the use of arms. This
provision basically restores Republic Act 1700 or the
Anti-Subversion Law, which penalizes mere membership in the CPP, NPA
or NDFP, regardless of actual participation in rebellious acts. The
amnesty program also effectively criminalizes political activism and
conflates it with rebellion, and insidiously targets persons who
would not otherwise be categorized as rebels because they have not
taken up arms.
The Marcos Jr. amnesty
program likewise excludes those who have been charged under the
Anti-Terrorism Act and the defunct Human Security Act. Considering
how these laws are being maliciously weaponized against activists
and political dissenters, this is cause for alarm. Once this
so-called amnesty program is underway, we may witness another wave
of arbitrary terrorist designations and court cases filed against
activists and dissenters.
The amnesty program
likewise provides no protection against civil suits and offers
limited guarantees as to how information disclosed by the amnesty
applicant will be used.
The National Task Force to
End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) will have a heyday
red-tagging, profiling, harassing and threatening activists who
refuse to join the amnesty charade, rendering them more vulnerable
to more serious human rights violations.
None of these, of course,
will impact the ongoing armed conflict in any significant way, and
will prove to be an exercise in futility, like all previous amnesty
programs of such nature.
Karapatan calls instead
for a general, unconditional and omnibus amnesty for all political
prisoners and others slapped with trumped-up charges, including
those wrongfully charged using the unconstitutional provisions of
the Anti-Terrorism Act and other related laws.
We demand that the Marcos
Jr. government squarely addresses the root causes of the armed
conflict. It must abolish the NTF-ELCAC and rescind Executive Order
70, which are nothing but instruments of repression and are totally
inutile in resolving the deep-seated roots of armed conflict. It
should ensure justice and accountability for all human rights and
international humanitarian law violations, and the immediate release
of all political prisoners. It should adhere to previously signed
agreements in the government’s peace talks with the NDFP and
implement thoroughgoing, comprehensive and substantial economic and
political reforms. It should stop its doublespeak on human rights,
social justice and just and lasting peace.