Soldiers to receive Human Rights Handbook

MANILA, Philippines – Soldiers will be handed a Human Rights Handbook from the high command to inculcate in them the military’s strict adherence to human rights.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public information chief Lt. Col. Marcelo Burgos said the handbook will serve as the “bible” of troops in combat or in peace missions.

Jointly crafted by the International Committee of the Red Cross, Commission on Human Rights and the AFP, the handbook contains pertinent human rights laws and policies, including rules of engagement.

Maj. Eugenio Julio Osias of the AFP Civil Relations Service said the handbook is intended to be carried by soldiers at all times as a guide, especially during military operations.

“In adherence to this command guidance, the military is adopting a clear-cut policy and firm guidelines to exemplify its resolve and firm commitments for human rights, thus the coming out of the soldiers’ handbook,” he said.

Following his assumption as AFP chief, Lt. Gen. Ricardo David said the military under his leadership will fully observe and respect human rights.

In his first command guidance, David told soldiers to win the insurgency within the bounds of law and most importantly with paramount respect for human rights.

The National Press Club (NPC) called on David to encourage regular dialogues between the media and the soldiers.

Last week, Defense Press Corps president Florante Solmerin was detained by military police at Camp Aguinaldo’s Gate 1 after he failed to pin his identification card.

Solmerin has forwarded his complaint to David, through the office of AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta.

Retired military personnel following up their retirement papers at military headquarters also experience the same treatment.

“The NPC believes that the AFP chief will live up to the expectations and dreams of the new President for the country and the people, including mediamen,” the NPC said in a statement.