Group seeks suspension of military ops in Bangsamoro

MANILA, Philippines — Humanitarian organization Oxfam Philippines has called for the suspension of military offensives in the Bangsamoro region, noting these have displaced more than 15,000 families in Basilan, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

“More than 15,000 families have lost their homes and livelihoods in armed conflict in the Bangsamoro region in recent months. While most people are asked to stay at home to avoid exposure to the coronavirus, some were forced to flee from their homes to save their lives,” the Oxfam Philippines said.

The organization issued the statement yesterday in observance of World Refugee Day.

It expresssed support for the same call issued by other civil society organizations and humanitarian agencies during the Bangsamoro peace and security summit for sustainable decelopment.

Oxfam said the cessation of hostilities would be a good opportunity to address the underlying causes of violence in the region.

“We support the call for a just and lasting peace, and for a genuine people’s participation in conflict resolution and management in the Bangsamoro region,” it said.

Peace dialogue among parties involved in armed conflict must continue, according to Oxfam.

“We also support government initiatives that will contribute to the economic growth and long-term development of areas affected by the armed conflict. We need to build back confidence alongside peace-building if we want to address the underlying causes of the armed conflict,” it added.