6 ‘rescued’ lumad students remain under DSWD custody

MANILA, Philippines — Six of the 19 lumad students reportedly rescued by the police from an educational center in Talamban, Cebu last month remain under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central Visayas field office.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Debold Sinas said yesterday the students would be under the care of the DSWD until appropriate pscyhosocial interventions are completed.

“A  proper evaluation and assessment with the child must be undertaken, including the capacity of the parent – and not any other person – to take custody of the child,” Sinas said.

Police said one of the six students, a 17-year-old girl, is a regular member of the New People’s Army.

Thirteen of the students have returned to their hometown in Talaingod, Davao del Norte. Seven persons were charged with kidnapping and human trafficking in connection with the police operation.