By SHERWIN DE VEA
www.nordis.net

VIGAN CITY — A Cordillera-based human rights group has urged parties to the armed conflict to protect civilians and uphold international humanitarian law as government offensives against communist guerrillas continue in Apayao province.

The Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA) issued the appeal following four separate armed encounters between government troops and alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Maragat, Kabugao.

“We urge all parties involved to strictly observe and uphold the principles of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Humanitarian Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL),” the group said in a statement on April 10.

The 5th Infantry Division said clashes took place on April 5, April 7, and most recently, around 11 a.m. on April 10. The fighting involved soldiers from the 98th Infantry Battalion and communist guerrillas from the Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee.

Joint Task Force Tala, under the Northern Luzon Command, launched focused military operations in the mountainous areas to pursue what it claims is the last active NPA unit in Northern Luzon. The encounters resulted in the recovery of weapons, explosives, communication devices, and subversive documents described as “high tactical value.” As of April 11, the military continues to intensify its operations, deploying air assets to support ground troops. NOLCOM has also ordered troops to set up blocking positions, and coordinate with police and hospitals to track fleeing NPA fighters.

CHRA raised concern over the possible impact of continued military operations on local communities, citing the military’s record of “grave human rights violations against civilians and hors de combat.”

The group urged government troops to refrain from using excessive force and to ensure the safety of civilians and combatants who can no longer take part in the conflict.

It also called on the Commission on Human Rights, local governments in Apayao, and humanitarian groups to monitor the situation and help protect civilians. CHRA said it would continue to document developments and encouraged the public to report violations through its social media channels or hotline.#nordis.net