Exodus for Justice and Peace

A STATEMENT OF GRIEF A CALL FOR JUSTICE

2011-11-03T13:46:00.002+08:00

A STATEMENT OF GRIEF

A CALL FOR JUSTICE

FACT-FINDING MISSION STATEMENT

OF THE KILLING OF ITALIAN PRIEST

FATHER FAUSTO ‘POPS’ TENTORIO

October 20, 2011

“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”

PSALM 82:3-4

We, representatives and leaders from Catholic and Protestant churches, faith-based institutions, advocacy groups, academe, health institutions, the youth sector, indigenous peoples, and peasants have come together in response to the KILLING OF FATHER FAUSTO ‘POPS’ TENTORIO, PIME and went to a FACT-FINDING MISSION IN ARAKAN, NORTH COTABATO on October 17, 2011.

The MISSION was the quickest possible response of the Exodus for Justice and Peace, along with peace advocates and human rights defenders, friends and colleagues of Father Pops in an effort to pursue justice while we are in deep grief.

Ours is a time when the people still languish in suffering and oppression. A time when peasants do not own the land they till and indigenous people driven away from their ancestral domains.

It is during these times when people, like Father Pops, who lived with the poor and the landless, and who would eventually stand up with them for more than 30 decades, are targeted and killed.

Father Pops has chosen the missionary’s life he knew would not be easy or would later endanger his life. He knew he would be persecuted. But he knew better, he continued to offer and dedicate his life to the lumads and peasants.

The brutal killing of Father Pops proved that Oplan Bayanihan was far from being a peace and development program, that it was rather just a sugar-coated continuation of the blood-stained counter-insurgency Oplan Bantay Laya 2, that claimed thousands of innocent lives including church people.

Thus, an interfaith, church-initiated and independent FACT-FINDING MISSION to Arakan Valley was carried out. Now, in behalf of those who joined, we now present, the MISSION findings and conclusions:

That Fr. Fausto Tentorio was shot to death between 7:15 – 7:30 in the morning of October 17, 2011 at the garage area within the compound of Mother of Perpetual Help Parish, Arakan Valley, North Cotabato Province. Witnesses saw the presence of men in military uniform near the crime scene. Fr. Fausto sustained multiple gunshot wounds on the chest area and one fatal shot on the head that caused his instantaneous death. His lifeless body was found beneath the Suzuki gray vehicle by Rosita Nabreda (caretaker) only at around 8:00 am when she was about to throw some garbage.
That on the night of October 16, some of the staff noticed the incessant barking of dogs within the compound between 8-11pm which was very unusual to them. And also that night they have seen two (2) military vehicles patrolling around the village.
On October 15, while Fr. Fausto along with Jun Lubiano (head of the parish formation and catechism) passed-by Sitio Kamanugan after serving a funeral mass at Brgy. Dalag, they saw the police confiscated 1 sack filled with long firearms brought by a civilian. But then they only knew that the military owned the firearms when a certain Capt. Espiritu contact the police and ordered not to hold the firearms, thereby claiming its ownership.
Before Fr. Fausto was killed, church workers observed the presence of unknown fish vendors everyday coming in and out within the parish compound for a period of two months. Likewise, a daycare teacher also noticed a strange man who was always looking for Fr. Fausto and his whereabouts. The man was observed visiting the parish for about six times consecutively every 2:00-3:00pm within the period of January to August this year.
It should be recalled that on June 12, 2009 about 3:45pm the parish was illegally searched by 9 elements of 57th Infantry Battalion wearing full battle gear as they wrongfully accused Fr. Fausto assisting sick and wounded New People’s Army (NPA) members.
Fr. Fausto used to sit in the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) of Arakan, but since 2007, the commander of 57th IB requested to pull him out because of the priest’s opposition to combat heavy military operations that has been targeting civilian communities. He was also against the formation of Barangay Defense System (BDS) and military encampments of schools. He was also a staunch advocate for the environment who was helping the community folks in their opposition to the entry of large-scale mining companies and encroachment of agri-industrial plantations in the area.
The near-death experience of Fr. Fausto on October 6-7, 2003 which he narrated, he was targeted by the paramilitary group called “Bagani” (a group organized by 73rd IB to run after the NPA and groups accused as having links with it) but was able to survive with the help of almost 300 lumads in Kitaotao, Bukidnon.

Hence, the MISSION believes that the killing of Fr. Pops is a premeditated, well-planned state-sponsored killing. It happened at the onset of the approval of President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III of the proposal of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) to deploy more military and paramilitary troops in the communities where there are strong local opposition to mining operations.

The MISSION believes that Fr. Pops is a VICTIM OF THE REIGNING IMPUNITY. This recent brutal killing exposed the continuing policy of the state on eliminating human rights defenders, peace and justice advocates.

Fr. Pops’ death has further exposed Oplan Bayanihan’s deceptive slogan of ‘peace and development.’ The killing of Fr. Pops is an example of the truth that the military’s peace and development teams are a machinery to protect the interest of the large-scale mining and agri-industrial corporations that cause environmental plunder, economic dislocation and displacement of indigenous peoples and peasants.

Six months ago, the Exodus for Justice and Peace conducted a fact-finding mission on the killings of peasant leader Rudy Dejos and his son in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur and anti-large-scale mining leader Santos “Ricky” Manrique in Pantukan.

The MISSION has also heard the people’s cry in the hinterlands of North Cotabato. Testimonies reveal that 'Peace and Development' Outreach Program (PDOP) under Oplan Bayanihan of the Eastern Mindanao Command of the AFP has nothing to do with genuine peace and real development. They said it is but a grand scheme for pacifying the people's oppositions against government’s supposed development projects.

At this point, the MISSION puts forward the following recommendations:

1. Pursue an independent investigation. Push for and facilitate case build-up, and expedite the prosecution of the perpetrators;

2. Create an atmosphere that would encourage witnesses to come out and stand for justice. Prepare and provide sanctuary to witnesses to ensure their safety and welfare as;

3. Immediately pull-out all military detachments and encampments in the affected areas. Stop the militarization in the country-sides, especially in areas targeted for mining explorations and operations and agribusiness plantation expansions;

4. Stop the vilification campaign against leaders, members and supporters of legitimate and progressive organizations who are critical to anti-people and anti-environment policies, programs and projects and to militarization under the counter-insurgency plan Oplan Bayanihan;

5. Dismantle the Task Force Gantangan that continues under Oplan Bayanihan of the Aquino government program. The group recruits lumads for paramilitary groups to guard mining concessions, agribusiness plantations and other corporate activities. These paramilitary groups harass, threaten, and even kill fellow lumads and their supporters who stand in defense of the ancestral domain and oppose the exploitation of natural resources;

6. Call on the Aquino government to stop the cycle of violence in ancestral domains and rural communities by taking back his approval of the proposal of the AFP on mining firms funding and organizing their own paramilitary units to secure their operations;

7. Submit the mission report and seek appropriate actions from national and international human rights entities, legislative bodies like the Philippine Senate and the House of Representatives and the Roman Catholic Church entities such as Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and the Vatican for appropriate actions.

We are here in grief and we are also here in faith – that justice must be pursued. Fr. Pops’ missionary life did not end with his death – he died to live with us and share to all of us the life he offered to the poor and the landless.

He knew we will not fall deaf or would close our eyes to the people’s cry and suffering. He knew we will speak out to condemn all that has caused the suffering of people.

Let us then take the challenge, seek JUSTICE FOR FATHER POPS! Let us join the journey, and call on others to take on Fr. Pops’ mission to help the poor and the oppressed encourage them to rise as one in our quest for a just and lasting peace.

Amos 5:24 says “let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!”

JUSTICE FOR FATHER FAUSTO ‘POPS’ TENTORIO, PIME!
Justice for all the Victims of Extra-Judicial Killings!
Justice for all the Victims of Human Rights Violations!
End Impunity Now!

“TO SUFFER THY CHILDREN IS THE WORST CRIME” - Bishop laments killing of child in own home

2011-09-12T11:25:00.004+08:00

Press Release
September 12, 2011

“TO SUFFER THY CHILDREN IS THE WORST CRIME” - Bishop laments killing of child in own home

Davao City --- “Is there no more safe place for children to live? Even in the confines of their own homes, they are threatened, worse, killed! To suffer thy children is among the worst crimes anyone could commit,” lamented Bishop Modesto Villasanta, convener of Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP) amidst the current uproar created by the killing of Sunshine Jabinez, a 7-year-old girl from Sitio Biasong, Brgy. Napnapan, Pantukan, Compostela Valley.

Jabinez was laid to rest yesterday. The triggerman, Pfc. ____ Ramos, a member of the 71st Infantry Battalion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines shot Jabinez with a machine gun while going amok last September 2 from across the Jabinez residence.

“Military presence does not provide a good and safe atmosphere for our children and the civilians,” Villasanta said. The bishop urged the government to stop the military’s continued encampment in civilian – populated communities.

“Jabinez’s death sends out a strong message that the path the government and military is taking is not the way to peace. There can be no peace and development if children’s lives are at the risk, at the mercy of the military’s guns,” said Bp. Villasanta.

The bishop added, “The worsening human rights situation of children in our country indicates how far worse the rest of the people are faring at the wake of combat heavy military operations that target even civilian communities, including children’s schools, clinics, gyms and barangay halls. This is not the way to genuine peace!”

Bishop Villasanta is calling for the pursuit of the peace negotiations between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the National Democratic Front (NDFP) in order to address landlessness and poverty as root causes of the social injustice and the armed conflict.

“The GPH and the NDFP have signed the Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) designed to respect human rights and international humanitarian law in the conduct of civil war. In this case, the government is obliged to uphold this agreement and mush assume responsibility over the child’s death caused by Oplan Bayanihan,” Bishop Villasanta said.#

Protect the sanctity of life, end impunity now!

2011-07-31T13:36:00.002+08:00

The Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP) welcomes the effort of the Commission on Human Rights to campaign against summary executions. However, EJP emphasizes that justice for the victims of summary executions and extrajudicial killings should be the utmost cry.

EJP is an alliance of the church leaders and religious, lawyers, academe, and other professionals committed to give flesh to the precepts of humanitarianism, promote respect for human rights and call for a just and lasting peace.

As shepherds of the flock we stand to be consistent with God’s call “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” Isaiah 1:17

We believe that the call for justice is a call to incarcerate culprits. It is very disheartening to know that out the 1,206 victims of EJK during the presidency of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, not one culprit was put into jail. And to note, the record of EJK continues in this present administration.

We further believe that the call to protect the sanctity of life is a call to end impunity. In this country, taking the side of the poor and the oppressed is a ticket to be tagged as rebels or worse, as terrorists therefore justifying to be included in the Order of Battle list of the State.

As citizens of this country, we challenge our leaders to take responsibility on giving justice for the victims and their bereaved families. We also challenge them to review and repeal the government policies that cultivate the culture of impunity.

We also call on to our fellow peace and justice advocates to remain watchful and valiant to take responsibility to be our brothers’ keepers.###

Protect the sanctity of life, end impunity now!

Press Statement

July 28, 2011

for reference:
Rev. Jurie Jaime
09198161876

Bishops believe release of 3 wounded NPA on humanitarian ground will help peace talks

2011-06-25T12:52:00.001+08:00

Davao City – Bishops belonging to the clergy-led Exodus for Justice and Peace reiterates their appeal to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) hierarchy to release the three NPA hors de combat on humanitarian grounds saying the release of the three will aid in the pursuance of peace talks.

The group was referring to Vanessa delos Reyes, Ariel Haducana, and Jason Casilum whom the AFP is keeping in hospital arrest after being critically wounded in a military encounter on May 29 in Davao Oriental. The Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division has rendered the three as its de facto prisoners of war (POW).

The group expressed this plea citing that in the past they have appealed to the New People’s Army to release its captured AFP officers and soldiers or POWs based on humanitarian grounds.

“Our call is ever more important, now that we are tracking peace talks,” convenor of the group Bishop Modesto Villasanta said. “The release of the three will definitely aid in confidence building for both the government and the NDF in pursuing peace talks,” he said.

“Instead of using peace rhetoric for military operations and insisting that the NPA is a local terrorist, the military must heed the call to support peace negotiations by observing and respecting signed agreements between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF),” Villasanta added.

Among the agreements include the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), and other international conventions such as the Geneva Conventions that provide rules on war.

“These agreements provide what is prohibited – such as the use of public places, including schools and barangay gyms, for military operations and provide mechanisms on how to protect persons not (anymore) taking direct part in armed hostilities, for example, relatives, hors de combat and medical professionals among others,” Villasanta said.

“The AFP seems to be ignoring the fact that the Philippine government is in a peace negotiations; they continue to tag NPAs as terrorists and file criminal cases against them. Clearly, this does not help the peace talks!” Bishop Delfin Callao, convenor of the group.

“Lisod man kung sige ingon ang AFP nga for peace sila, but only uses this as cover para ipadayon ang ilang combat operations in the hinterlands of Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental,” Callao added.###

Bishops believe release of 3 wounded NPA on humanitarian ground will help peace talks
Press Release
June 24, 2011

Release NPA Hors de Combat on Humanitarian Grounds; A Call in Support of the GPH-NDFP Peace Talks

2011-06-24T21:34:00.005+08:00

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink. (Proverbs 25:21)” As civil libertarians, church people, and human rights advocates, we are imploring this basic faith imperative along with our appeal to humanize the raging armed conflict in the country.

We have appealed to the New People’s Army in the past, calling on them to release prisoners of war on humanitarian grounds. In response, the NPA has released captured Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) soldiers and officers allowing them to reunite with their anguished wives and families.

We are now submitting an appeal to Lt. Gen. Arthur Tabaquero, chief of the Eastern Mindanao Command and Major General Jorge Segovia, commander of the 10th Infantry Division of the AFP to release the NPA hors de combat Vanessa delos Reyes, Ariel Haducana, and Jason Casilum whom they are keeping in hospital arrest after being critically wounded in a military encounter on May 29 in Davao Oriental. The Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division has rendered the three as its de facto prisoners of war.

Hors de combat, whether AFP or NPA fighters, are combatants who have been injured, rendered incapable of engaging in active combat, and are accorded rights to medical care and other rights under international humanitarian law. For this, we commend Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte for his timely help in transporting the NPA hors de combat so that they could gain access to life-saving medical treatment. We also laud those well-meaning individuals who have aided Vice Mayor Duterte in facilitating the emergency medical evacuation of the seriously wounded guerillas.

We believe that reciprocity is incumbent upon both protagonists in the civil war. As the NPA has released prisoners of war in the past, the time now calls on the AFP to reciprocate with its own humanitarian gestures.

If heeded by the AFP, this will be a significant step to humanize the dire impact of civil war on human lives and, more importantly, to bring forth confidence in the peace talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GPH) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

It does not bode well therefore that criminal, not even rebellion charges, have been lodged against the NPA hors de combat to justify their continuing detention. While this has made their hospital arrest arguably legal or illegal, ours is a humanitarian appeal for their immediate release to their families.

It is an appeal based on their intrinsic rights as hors de combat in international humanitarian law and under the GPH-NDFP Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which is subscribed to by both the AFP and the NPA.

Poverty and oppression have bred the present armed conflict that has raged for more than forty years in our country. Thus, we foresee that the civil war will continue as long as the roots of armed conflict are not addressed.

In the meantime, we can only call for sustained GPH-NDFP peace talks and hope to humanize the war, and we shall do so for every family tormented by the detention of their loved ones as prisoners of war or as hors de combat. This faith imperative has resonated since Biblical times: "Would you kill men you have captured with your own sword or bow? Set food and water before them so that they may eat and drink and then go back to their master. (2 Kings 6:22)"

SIGNED

Bishop Delfin D. Callao Jr. Iglesia Filipina Independiente

Bishop Constante D. Claro United Church of Christ in the Philippines

Bishop Modesto Villasanta UCCP-South Eastern Mindanao Jurisdiction

Sister Elvira Soleminio, m.a. Coordinator, Missionaries of the Assumption

Dr. Jean Lindo Anesthesiologist

Mr. Teng Mangansakan Independent Film Director

Mr. Arnel Mardoquio Independent Film and Theater Writer/Director

Ms. Lyndee Prieto Artist/Production Manager

Sr. Diane Cabasagan, RGS Center for Overseas Worker in Davao

Mr. Rogelio A. Macatol National Coordinator, Lay Forum Philippines

Father Jonathan Casimina Davao Episcopal Church

Sister Nimfa Bana Sisters’ Association in Mindanao

Sister Julita P. Encarnacion, m.a. Rural Missionaries of the Philippines Southern Mindanao

Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM) Social Ministry Community in Davao

S. Ma. Mila G. Ortega, RVM, S. Ma. Zosima N. Capua, RVM, S. Ma. Erlinda S. Cruz, RVM, S. Ma. Estela C. Biliran, RVM, S. Ma. Anita M. Talbo, RVM, Longina S. Banais, Vivian Davalan, Luisa Canoy, Gina Adlawan, Marissa Gory, Jeramelyn Cayetano, Kristine Amboy, Federico Epifanio Sr., Adela Almano, Virginia T. Rivamonte, Erlina P. Ballo, Pilar N. Ripo, Edlin Tabulong, RSW, Jhoanna G. Bisnar, RSW, Lydia A. Dalin-as, Cresilda D. Hamili, Emelyn B. Ebol, Ray G. Rodica, Joseph Macapobre, Ailyn A. Feurzas, Nonie L. Acas, Arceli C. Monterola, Mary Grace Lonzaga, Anngie Parreño, Reah Lyn B. Lambunao, Daregin A. Insulla, Marie Fe Miole, Lita Daloy, Jie Campo, Helen Grace Briones, Lewelyn Abcede, Lea Frota, Bernie Chavez, Anita T. Say-a, Dionie Eguia, Mark Escote, Jhun Dacumbar, Carmen Nolunan

Missionaries of the Assumption (m.a.) Community in Davao

Sister Concepcion P. Gasang, m.a. Assumption College of Davao, Elsbeth Fritzie D. Castillo, Jopriz Bueno, Ivory Mae C. de Asis, Fe O. Palma, Sahara Theresa Buit, Paul Michael Olorvida, Stephani Saludo, Floredeliza P. Masugot, Michelle H. Dela Vega, Nora B. Minorias, Rochelle Sta. Ana, Judith Ambalong, Peter Jay T., Reygil C. Lagura, Tetzlee Rose Salondaguil, Carmela G. Urmeneta, Jeleo A. Lupis, Marites Bersabal, Ruel Larutin, Jennifer B. Calinawan, Pauline Joy B. Perez, Archie Gonzaga, Pinky B. Galicha, Elsa B. Villanueva, Daisy Palconit, Charlotte F. Florito, Evelinda O. Castillo, Ethel Marie Y. Aguilar, Grace B. Tulo, Giovanni A. Montez, Ymerrie Rose L. Payad, May Ann Joan B. Cagulada, DM Carascal, Rocky L. Macatambad, Grace S. Sayas, Ma. Raida H. Humbria, Marlyn Serenado, Michelle L. Alfaro, Eva G. Dismas, Marites A. Cañedo, Janesan A. Malinao, Jeanelyn Dailo, Loraine Estorba, Dinah Clopano

United Church of Christ in the Philippines Southern Mindanao District Conference

Rev. Elmer N. Zapanta Conference Minister, Rev. Teresita N. Aton Deputy Conference Minister, Rev. Sarly Templado, Tito Bodiongan Conference Staff, Roel N. Noval Conference Staff, Engr. Bonifacion S. Aton, Raffy M. Antes, Julieta Noleli, Laurence Jan S. Salve, Denver Hocamez, Sylvia S. Anopia, Eric Aparicio

Release NPA Hors de Combat on Humanitarian Grounds

A Call in Support of the GPH-NDFP Peace Talks

June 2011

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Bishop urges, stop using peace rhetoric for military operations

2011-06-15T17:12:00.002+08:00

Davao City - A bishop of the clergy-led peace group Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP) expressed today his concern over the Army’s 10th Infantry Division for its malicious use of peace rhetoric over the Army’s continued military operations in the region.

“We view with concern how the military uses the terms “peace and development” to describe their combat-heavy operations. Six months after these supposedly “peace-driven” activities have started in our country, we have heard the cries of our people. Where is peace then?” said Bishop Delfin Callao, convenor of the group.

Bishop Callao said that an interfaith peace and solidarity mission is currently in Cateel, Davao Oriental to investigate the reported cases of military forces encamped in public places including schools and barangay gyms for military operations.

Quoting reports from human rights workers in the field, the AFP’s 10th ID forces are said to be deployed in towns and civilian communities of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley. “We do not see these activities of the military as peace efforts but combat operations, detrimental to solving the roots of armed conflict,” Bishop Callao said.

“While we call on the government of the Philippines to pursue the peace talks by complying with the intent of their Joint Oslo Statement in September 21, 2011 to release political prisoners, we also call on the military to immediately stop the militarization of civilian communities,” Bishop Callao said.

“Under the tenets of the International Humanitarian Law, it is prohibited to use schools and other public places for military purposes,” Bishop Callao added.###

PRESS RELEASE

June 15, 2011

Respect NPA hors de combat, peace group urges

2011-06-02T08:29:00.002+08:00

DAVAO CITY – Peace group Exodus for Justice and Peace is calling for the respect of the human rights of the three wounded New People’s Army (NPA) members who sought the intervention of local authorities. It also warned the 10th ID of the AFP from interfering with local civilian authorities in the medical treatment of the NPA hors de combat.

EJP echoed calls for the recognition of the international humanitarian law with respect to injured combatants or hors de combat, especially in the context of the upcoming peace talks between the GPH and the NPA’s negotiating arm, the NDFP.

EJP convenor Bishop Modesto Villasanta said, “The state must ensure not only the rights of the three NPA hors de combat to immediate medical attention but after they are treated, they should be released should there be no cases filed against them.” He cited Numbers 1 and 2, Article 4, under Part IV of the GPH-NDF Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and the International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).

“The family of Vanessa delos Reyes, one of the wounded NPA members, have sought the assistance of the EJP and reported that elements under the 10th Infantry Division are forcing the visitors to sign a logbook. As a guerilla rendered an hors de combat (wounded and incapable of fighting back) Vanessa should now be afforded with the same right as the other patients. She should be in a condition conducive to her early recovery, and hence, she and all those attending to her medication should be free from any threat, intimidation, or whatsoever,” he said.

“With respect to the upcoming peace talks this month, the government must show its sincerity by affording these NPA members rights that are due them,” Bp. Villasanta added.

CARHRIHL provides that:1) Persons hors de combat and those who do not take a direct part in hostilities are entitled to respect for their lives, dignity, human rights, political convictions and their moral and physical integrity and shall be protected in all circumstances and treated humanely without any adverse distinction founded on race, color, faith, sex, birth, social standing or any other similar criteria. 2) The wounded and the sick shall be collected and cared for by the party to the armed conflict which has them in its custody or responsibility. ###

PRESS RELEASE
June 1, 2011

Bishop urges stop in militarization, supports call for release of North Cotabato POWs

2011-05-29T00:44:00.001+08:00

DAVAO CITY – The call for the immediate release of 57th IB personnel CPL Delfin Sarocam and PFC Jayson Valenzuela from the hands of the New People's Army (NPA) is strongly supported by peace group, Exodus for Justice and Peace.

According to Bishop Modesto Villasanta, convener of Exodus for Justice and Peace, “We are very glad that there are more groups, more movement, advocating for genuine and lasting peace.”

The military personnel were taken by the NPA as its prisoners-of-war (POWs) last April 14 at Sitio Dalinding, Barangay Puas Inda, in President Roxas, Cotabato.

The United Church of Christ in the Philippines bishop is referring to the newly-organized For Release Now!, a religious and civil-society movement calling for the safe and immediate release of 57th IB personnels.

“It is our duty as Christians to be peacemakers and as active stakeholders in the peace advocacy. We hope to gain more support for the calls of the release of the POWs,” Villasanta said.

The bishop reiterated appeals made by well-meaning individuals and the families of the two POWs for the military to pull-out its troops in the villages of North Cotabato to give way for the POWs’ immediate and safe release.

“We are calling on the AFP to heed the cries of the families who wish to be reunited with their loved ones,” Bp. Villasanta said.

He added that “(I)t is the government’s duty to provide a conducive ground for negotiations and for the safe release of the POWs.” #

PRESS RELEASE, May 27, 2011. Bishop urges stop in militarization, supports call for release of North Cotabato POWs

For reference:

Exodus for Justice and Peace - 221-6920
Bishop Modesto Villasanta - 0928-692-0141

Duyog sa Panaw 2011 Mission Statement

2011-05-23T08:32:00.000+08:00

A Call for Justice to Victims of Extra-judicial killings
A Call for the Respect Human Rights and International Humanitarian Laws
Mission Statement
May 23, 2011

Duyog sa Panaw
National Interfaith Peace and Mercy Mission
May 20-23, 2011

National peace and mercy mission confirms extra-judicial killings continue under PNoy admin; Oplan Bayanihan continue dark legacy of Oplan Bantay Laya

“Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.”
Isaiah 1:17

The Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP) spearheaded a national interfaith peace and mercy mission dubbed as Duyog sa Panaw, May 20-23, 2011 in two mission areas, in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur and in Pantukan, Compostela Valley.

Duyog sa Panaw was an effort from peace advocates, human rights defenders and peoples organizations to continue the pursuit of justice and genuine peace by way of an independent fact-finding mission on the recent cases of extra-judicial killings in the aforementioned towns.

The killings of Rudy and his son Rudyric Dejos in Sta. Cruz and that of Santos Manrique in Pantukan brought to light the real face of Oplan Bayanihan: that it was far from being a peace and development program and that it was a carryover of the previous counterinsurgency policy, the Oplan Bantay Laya 2.

As in the past, militarization is not entirely within the purview of the government’s thrust to curb the country’s insurgency, but actually forms part of the state’s continued subservience to foreign capitalist interests, in this case, in Southern Mindanao region.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines, through its spin-doctor’s, has tried hard but failed to repackage Oplan Bayanihan as a deadly policy when, this early, such policy has again claimed lives and properties of civilian communities.

Duyog sa Panaw now puts forward the following results of the fact-finding mission:
1. On the killing of the Dejoses
Rudy Dejos had served as Vice-Chairperson of Zone 1 Farmers’ Association (ZOFA) – a farmer’s organization in Sta. Cruz affiliated with the progressive Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas. His son Rudyric who is also a member of ZOFA.

Before he died, Rudy Dejos served as a tribal chieftain of the B’Laan community and acted as a Barangay Human Rights Officer. He actively campaigned against the Barangay Defense System which forces the recruitment of residents.

Testimonies from Rudy’s colleagues tell of a peasant leader who rendered good leadership in their former organization Patulangon Farmer’s Association (PATUFA). Some time in 2009, the PATUFA was dismantled by the 39th Infantry Battallion of the Philippine Army when the latter accused the former of having links with the underground New People’s Army. Since then, full blast human rights violations committed by the 39th IB against residents had escalated.

Rudy Dejos, was steadfast in reviving the PATUFA. That was then they were able to form the Zone-1 Farmers’ Association (ZOFA) where he served as Vice-Chairperson. He sought the support of Karapatan, Alliance for the Advancement of People’s Rights, in exposing the rights abuses, to the consternation of the military.

During one of the meetings initiated by the military in the community, they gave out warnings not to attend rallies, not to go to Karapatan and to isolate Dejos. The military was also reported to have told residents: “Kana sila dili makahatag og yuta sa inyoha kami makahatag sa inyo og yuta, 6-feet below the ground. [They (Karapatan and other progressive groups) cannot give you land; we can give you land--6-feet below the ground].”

On February 27, 2011 in their farm house located at Upper Malusing, Brgy. Zone-1, Sta. Cruz Rudy and Rudyric Dejos were found dead. The bodies of both father and son bore stab wounds, gunshot wounds, and signs of torture. The post-mortem report has yet to be released from the Municipal Health Office.

According to Chief of Police Demetrius Taypin, the Dejos killing was jointly investigated by the municipal Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Provincial Crime and Investigation Detection Group (CIDG). The police investigation concluded that the NPA killed the Dejoses; a case was already filed in court.

On the other hand, the Dejos family and the officers of local organizations believe that only the elements of the 39th Infantry Battalion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines has the motive of killing the activists.

In the information gathered by the mission team, a testimony from a resident (name withheld) of Zone 1 revealed that before Rudy was killed, he had already received death threats and harassments from the elements of the 39th IB. Said testimony narrated that possible reasons for these threats are: 1) Rudy’s refusal to attend meetings called for by the military particularly regarding the Barangay Defense System, 2) Rudy’s active membership in ZOFA, 3) The military believes that Rudy is a member of the New People’s Army.

The testimony also revealed there are two witnesses to corroborate the fact that the military is behind the killing.
2. On the murder of Manrique

Santos Manrique, 50 years old, was barangay councilor of Barangay Kingking in Pantukan, Compostela Valley. He was also the chairperson of Panalipdan Pantukan, a progressive environmental group opposing the entry of large-scale and foreign mining operations in the area.

Manrique had been leading small-miners in opposing the operation of large-scale mining companies that include: Philippine Mining Corporation (PMC); Minerals Resource Incorporation (NMRI); Nationwide Development Corporation (NADECOR) known to be the local partner of US-owned Russel Mining and Minerals, Inc.

As an active anti-foreign and large mining, Manrique was consistent in gathering petitions from local residents to firmly oppose the entry of environmental plunderers.

Manrique was also one of those who reported to the regional office of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) Southern Mindanao Region regarding the presence of US soldiers involved in the US-RP Balikatan exercise last January 26-27 at Batiao Beach Resort, Pantukan.

With his involvement in the said campaign, Manrique had received death threats and harassments through text messages. He was even tagged as a supporter of the New People’s Army. In March this year, Manrique was held and harassed by elements of the 1001st Brigade in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley on his way home after meeting fellow small-scale miners.

Before he was killed, Manrique, was said to be visited by a certain personnel from Russel Mining to ask him to sign a document giving permission to the operation of said mining company.

On April 12, 2011, Manrique was shot dead by four (4) unidentified armed men riding on motorcycles.

The mission further learned of the following cases of human rights violations:
1. In Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, residents of Brgy. Zone 1 are living daily in terror, afraid of the 39th Infantry Battalion living among them.
a. The mission team recorded a total of 26 cases of human rights violations with 851 victims;
b. The 39th IB violated the international humanitarian law prohibiting the use of schools, medical, religious and other public places or facilities for military purposes, which has affected around 25 families;
c. The 39th IB also violated the rights of 22 individuals by coercing them to join the Barangay Defense System, using them as shields against the military’s enemies;
d. Two hundred nineteen (219) residents were victims of harassments and intimidation and one hundred forty-five (145) were violated of their right to freedom of association, when the 39th IB threatened them from joining rallies and progressive organizations;
2. In Pantukan, Compostela Valley, large-scale foreign mining interests resulted in violations of the international humanitarian laws and the human rights of small-scale miners and their families of Gumayan, Brgy. Kingking:

a. Three thousand (3,000) individuals or around 500 families were victims of land grabbing resulting from the Russel mining company’s claim of the ancestral domain of the Lumads in the area;
b. The elements of the 71st IB violated IHL in their use of public place and facilities for military operations affecting 480 individuals and 80 families;
c. The mission has also documented of the formation of a private army initiated by Russel mining company;
3. Human rights defenders are victims of human rights violations too
a. Mission delegation that went to Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur were harassed by the presence of elements of the 39th IB who were in the activity area. Their presence also intimidated other residents who were prevented from giving their testimonies to Mission team members;
b. Delegates who went to Pantukan, Compostela Valley, were harassed when a composite team of Pantukan police and soldiers belonging to the 71st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army held a surprise checkpoint;

Duyog sa Panaw believes that the mission has found revealing data and information on the continued sufferings of our peasant and lumad brothers and sisters who, in their fight for life and liberty, are being targeted by the state’s military apparatus who violate their basic human rights with impunity and without compunction.

Duyog sa Panaw thus puts forward the following demands and calls:
1. That the PNoy administration immediately investigate and prosecute the perpetrators of the violations committed by state security forces and law enforcement agencies against the people. We demand, in particular, the prosecution of responsible elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines belonging to the 39th and the 71st Infantry Battalions of the Philippine Army-10th Infantry Division as having masterminded and perpetrated the killings of the Dejoses and Manrique;
2. That the PNoy administration order to immediately end the continued forced recruitment of civilians into and to dismantle the Barangay Defense System (BDS), adhere to the principles regarding the protection of civilians from being forced to take part in the hostilities as provided for by international humanitarian laws and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Laws (CARHRIHL);
3. Review and stop the AFP’s counterinsurgency program under the Oplan Bayanhihan that has facilitated the use of schools, medical, religious and other public places or facilities for military purposes endangering the lives of civilians;
4. Immediately pull-out all military personnel who are taking over civilian communities in the guise of peace and development;
5. Stop all counterinsurgency programs that only aim to stifle people’s struggle for life and put in place instead socio-economic reforms that address the root cause of armed conflict in the country.
6. Sustain the peace talks between the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines

We shall not be deaf when we hear the cry of the oppressed. We shall not close our eyes when we see our people’s suffering. We shall speak out to condemn all that has caused the misery of the poor.

We have taken the challenge to seek justice and continue with our commitment for the respect of human rights.

Let this mission’s undertaking continue to challenge others to join the journey and encourage the oppressed to rise as one in our quest for a just and lasting peace.

Signed

“Duyog sa Panaw”
National Interfaith Peace and Mercy Mission
May 23, 2011
Davao Episcopal Mission Center
Davao City, Philippines

Police, military stops peace mission in surprise checkpoint

2011-05-22T17:25:00.000+08:00

From Duyog sa Panaw 2011 - Pantukan, Compostela Valley

Pantukan, Compostela Valley - A composite team of Pantukan police and soldiers belonging to the 71st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army atop a 6x6 army vehicle, held at a surprise checkpoint, 73 members of a Peace and Mercy Mission of the church-led Exodus for Justice and Peace Saturday afternoon.

Police Inspector Dwayne Ducducan, head of the 10-man composite team ordered male members of Duyog sa Panaw mission – composed of church people and human rights advocates from Davao City and Manila – to alight from the truck at around 4: 30 pm near the Pantukan poblacion. “We were falsely accused of carrying firearms. It was pure harassment against us,” cried Rev. Angelico Confreros, Jr. of Exodus for Justice and Peace

The Mission came from Sitio Gumayan, Brgy. Kingking where they investigated circumstances surrounding the killing of Santos Manrique, a known mining leader, as well as the impact of the mining operations of the US-based Russel Mining.

“We resisted and asserted that it was an illegal search they’re doing, therefore it was unnecessary for any of us to unload from the truck. We were willing to submit to a checkpoint in plain view only. But the police insisted. We even showed them the approved letter and permission from Pantukan Mayor Celso Sarenas, but they ignored it and proceeded with their search. Under duress, our male contingent unloaded and raised their shirts to show that we were not carrying any arms,” said Hanimay Suazo, acting deputy secretary general of Karapatan Southern Mindanao and head of the documentation team of the mission delegates in Pantukan.

Undeterred by the harassment, the groups proceeded to the police station to continue with their fact-finding mission. They interviewed authorities on its own investigation of Manrique’s killing. They also filed a police blotter to complain over the death threats received by Belen Galleto, Manrique’s colleague and also a member of Save Pantukan Alliance and Panalipdan, both environmental groups opposing foreign and large-scale mining in ssouthern Mindanao.

The group also filed a police blotter on the illegal search and checkpoint, which prompted the police to later ask for an apology.

“We condemn this act of arrogance from the state’s law enforcing agencies, the PNP and the Armed forces of the Philippines (AFP). They can never silence or stop us from seeking justice,” said Bishop Modesto Villasanta, convenor of the Exodus for Justice and Peace.

Duyog sa Panaw is a national interfaith peace and mercy mission attended by national and local peace and human rights advocates. It sent fact-finding delegations to Pantukan and Sta. Cruz towns, areas where extra-judicial killings have recently occurred.###

Police, military stops peace mission in surprise checkpoint
Press Release
May 22, 2011

For reference:

Exodus for Justice and Peace Secretariat
0930-532-1683

39th IB soldiers disrupts peace mission in Sta. Cruz

2011-05-22T17:22:00.000+08:00

Davao City - Delegates of the National Fact Finding Mission spearheaded by Exodus for Justice and Peace in Sta. Cruz Davao del Sur were harassed by the elements of the 39th Infantry Battalion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Saturday (May 21).

The National Fact Finding Mission that was composed of various organizations went to Sta. Cruz to investigate on the killing of two peasant members of the a local farmer’s group in Brgy. Zone 1, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur and the reported cases of human rights violations brought by the installation of the Barangay Defense System.

Twenty nine delegates from various sectoral organizations arrived at Cagas Gym in Brgy. Zone 1 at around 8:45 in the morning of Saturday. “Upon our arrival we noticed the presence of more or less two fully-armed military men observing at the youth who were playing volleyball that time,” narrated Jose Arnel Aguilar of the Promotion of Church People’s Response National Capital Region.

“We immediately left the gym and proceed to the Municipal Hall of Sta. Cruz to pay courtesy to Mayor Joel Lopez who assured us of our security in the area,” Aguilar said.

“We returned to Cagas Gym to proceed with our activity. That was the time we saw that the number of soldiers increased,” he said.

“Although the Barangay Captain of Brgy. Zone 1, Ricky Taylaran,Sr., admitted that he invited the 39th IB to watch over the disco activity of the barangay after the youth sportsfest in the morning, we are appalled that the military were very early to conduct their monitoring. It is very clear that they were in the area to monitor the activity of the fact-finding mission,” he added.

Two unidentified men who were believed to be elements of the 39th IB entered the Day Care Center where the mission team was conducting interviews with the local residents and farmer leaders.

The two suddenly took pictures of the interviewees. “The interviewees and our documentation team were harassed and feared for their security,” Aguilar said.

“Minomonitor nga talaga ang activity namin. Maituturing na harassment ang ginawa nila dahil natakot ang mga inimbitahang residente at mga magsasakang kinakausap namin. Nakapagdulot iyon ng pag-dadalawang-isip sa mga iniinterview na magbahagi ng kanilang mga nalalaman sa lugar at kanilang opinion sa kaso ng mag-amang Dejos,” he said.

“Our team confronted a certain military officer Meneses who denied that they were taking pictures, contrary to what we saw from their digital camera which we borrowed from them,” he said.

“This only shows that the counter-insurgency plan Oplan Bayanihan (OPB), which parades its self to respect human rights and promote peace, is out to threaten, harass and intimidate civilians. Just like the previous Oplan Bantay Laya, OPB is out to target legal progressive organizations,” Aguilar added.#

Press Release
May 22, 2011

For reference:

Exodus for Justice and Peace Secretariat
0930-532-1683

Peace group to lead national peace and mercy mission;

2011-05-21T09:57:00.000+08:00

From Duyog sa Panaw 2011

Peace group to lead national peace and mercy mission; probes on extra-judicial killings and hr violations in region

Davao City – Clergy-led peace group Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP) will spearhead a National Interfaith Peace and Mercy Mission, Duyog sa Panaw, from May 21-23, 2001 to look into recent cases of extra-judicial killings and reported human rights violations in Southern Mindanao.

Bishop Delfin Callao, convenor of EJP, said that Duyog sa Panaw will visit Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur and Pantukan, Compostela Valley for two highlight cases of extra-judicial killings in the region.

Bishop Callao cited the documentation by human rights group Karapatan, an alliance for the advancement of people’s rights, that in Sta. Cruz, a B’laan tribal chieftain Rudy Dejos, vice-chairperson of Zone-1 Farmers Association (ZOFA) and his son Rody Rick Dejos, who is also a member of ZOFA, were tortured and brutally killed in broad daylight last February 27, 2011. The report also indicated that suspected members and agents of the 39th Infantry Battalion under Lt. Col. Oliver Artuz carried out the barbaric crime. ZOFA is affiliated to the progressive peasant organization Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP)

Two weeks after the Dejos incident, Santos Manrique in Pantukan, Compostela Valley was shot dead by four unidentified motorcycle-riding gunmen at his residence in Brgy. Kingking last April 12, 2011. Manrique was a barangay councilor and was the chairperson of the progressive environmental group Panalipdan.

Bishop Modesto Villasanta of the United Church of Christ of the Philippines and convenor of EJP pointed out that before their deaths “it was clear that they were active in their respective causes – land, national patrimony and the environment.”

“In the face of these extra-judicial killings and at least 53 documented instances of human rights violations, the 10th Infantry Division (ID) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) continues to shamelessly brag about their ‘peace and development outreach programs’,” added Bishop Villasanta.

“Reports and testimonies from families of victims of extra-judicial killings and other human rights violations would reveal the deception and true intent of the military’s counterinsurgency program via Oplan Bayanihan. The policy continues to attempt to stifle people’s dissent, and to suppress the peasants’ struggle for land, and people’s struggle against poverty. Definitely not the kind of peace we seek,” Bishop Villasanta said.

Residents in different communities in armed conflict areas and even in villages here in Davao City, Callao added, continue to be intimidated and harassed by military presence by tagging them as supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) and by forcing civilians to become members of the Barangay Defense System (BDS).

“There are also many cases wherein innocent civilians are illegally arrested by state agents and are presented as NPA surrenderees,” said Callao.

“It worries us that these incidents seem to be just a continuation of the much-hated Oplan Bantay Laya, which wrecked thousands of lives and properties. Thus, our call is for the government to end the implementation of these counterinsurgency programs and to address the real causes of armed conflict in its place. It is high time that we give way for genuine peace; one that is based on justice,” Callao said.

A national delegation from the National Council of Churches in the Philippines, Kalipunan ng mga Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas, Promotion of Church People’s Response and Karapatan will join EJP in solidarity with the families and in the documentation of the said cases.###

Peace group slams military’s ‘peace and development’ teams in Toril

2011-03-09T23:39:00.000+08:00

PRESS RELEASE
January 22, 2011

For reference:
BISHOP DELFIN CALLAO, JR
300-5397

Davao City - The intensified militarization in Toril District, this city, is taking its toll on the civilians.

This was the observation of the peace group Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP) after conducting a peace and service mission in Barangay Baracatan, Toril last Sunday (January 16).

Responding to the clamor of farmer communities here, members of the EJP held “Panaw Alang sa Kalinaw ug Tawhanong Katungod" (Journey for Peace and Human Rights), a peace and service mission that aims to uplift the morale of farmer residents of the district, as they now face the toll of the new internal security plan, Oplan Bayanihan.

EJP said reports from farmer communities that the military, in the form of Peace and Development Teams (PDTs), has massively militarized several barangays in Toril such as Brgys. Tibuloy, Lizada, Sentro Toril, Baracatan, Crossing Bayabas, Tubugan, and other areas.

“We are alarmed about the impact of the Aquino government’s PDTs on the democratic rights of the civilians. After Paquibato, the military has seemingly shifted its focus on Toril and right now, alarming cases of hamletting, and harassment by the 84th IB – 10th ID are reaching our office,” said Bishop Delfin Callao, Jr, a convenor of the EJP.

Recently, reports about military-perpetrated torture and harassment in Baracatan came out in news reports while a certain “Amanda,” a 17 yo. minor was used as a fake surrenderee of the military. Farmer leaders and residents also complained about military doing dubious censuses or profiling of residents.

Callao said the widely practiced “hamletting” of civilian communities is causing terrible impact on the socioeconomic and political way of life of the civilians and communities.

“We are saddened that the dynamic political life in the barangays is being overtaken by military rule. This is not the real meaning of ‘bayanihan.’ This instead is an attempt to mask the inhumane agenda of war by mouthing peace and development,” said Callao.

“What we denounce is the whole agenda of deception of Oplan Bayanihan crafted by the war generals. It is hard to believe that genuine peace can be reached through a mere face-lifting of the military’s legacy of using brute force against the civilians,” said Callao.

“We urge the government to address the root cause of the armed conflict by sincerely addressing the problems of landlessness, unjust wages,blatant abuse of democratic rights and lack of basic social services. The military’s peace and development teams can never provide land to the landless, jobs for the jobless and full access to basic social services,” he said.

EJP’s Panaw sa Toril provided medical, dental services to more than 300 residents. Children and women were also provided counseling and therapy. #

New Counter Insu Plan should be scrutinized-- Peace group

2011-03-09T23:38:00.000+08:00

PRESS RELEASE
November 29, 2010

For reference:

Bishop Modesto Villasanta
0928-692-0141

DAVAO CITY – Exodus for Justice and Peace, an aggrupation of peace advocates, urged President Noy-noy Aqunio to focus on the genuine reforms in the national policies instead of merely replacing the Oplan Bantay Laya (OBL) with a new counter-insurgency campaign being implemented by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“As long as there are no changes in the national policies, and for as long as the people are still wallowing in discontent and crying for justice, the insugency and the armed conflict cannot be substantially addressed by replacing it with another oplan,” Bishop Modesto Villasanta of the Exodus for Justice and Peace said, in response to the reported new counter-insurgency plan to be unveiled to the public in January.

The bishop made the statement during a recent Regional Multisectoral Workshop on International Humanitarian Law and Peace Talks co-sponsored by the Southeastern Mindanao Regional Ecumenical Council.

According to Bishop Villasanta, “The purported new thrust of the AFP on human rights and good governance should be sharply scrutinized by all concerned parties, especially the church which continues to witness the AFP’s hand in the spate of extra-judicial killing, the culture of impunity and the worsening human rights condition in the country.”

“Let us take our lessons from the past regimes. Counter-insurgency programs are only meant to quell people's legitimate dissent and their cry for lands, employment, just wage, and prioritization of social services,” said Bishop Villasanta.

“We call on President Noynoy Aquino to genuinely address the root cause of insurgency by pursuing peace talks and negotiations with the National Democratic Front and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. These groups have legitimate demands for genuine land reform and national industrialization that will ensure the people of sustainable livelihood and employment free from exploitation and oppression,” he said.

The bishop also added that the Peace and Development Teams deployed recently by the AFP in several parts of Southern Mindanao will not address the problems besetting farmers but will instead instill among them fear and terror and prevent them from voicing out their sentiments to the government. #

Condemn the continuing policy of state terrorism and impunity under the US-Aquino Regime!

2011-03-09T23:33:00.000+08:00

DEFEND KELLY DELGADO, DEFEND ALL HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS

PRESS STATEMENT

October 18, 2010

Condemn the continuing policy of state terrorism and impunity under the US-Aquino Regime! Defend Kelly Delgado, Defend All Human Rights Defenders!

We strongly condemn the threats on the life and freedom of Mr. Kelly Delgado and all other human rights defenders.

Mr. Kelly Delgado has been a staunch human rights advocate who boldly exposed human rights violations perpetrated by the military on several occasions in Southern Mindanao Region including political killings, enforced disappearance, displacements, and harassments against legitimate dissenters. Because of his advocacy he gained the ire of military officers.

Threats on his life were made known through text messages sent to Charm Radio. Trumped-up charges were filed against him by the Inter-Agency Legal Action Group (IALAG), 10th IDPA and by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Together with other human rights defender, Mr. Delgado was included in the Order of Battle (OB) list as target for “neutralization.” A Mission Order (MO) to physically eliminate him was already issued by the Eastern Mindanao Command under which are the 10th and 4th Infantry Divisions of the Philippine Army.

We protest the attacks and threats against Mr. Delgado and other human rights defenders!

The false statement made by BGen. Eduardo del Rosario, commanding officer of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army (1003rd IBPA), during a press conference held on September 21, 2010 was clearly meant to harass and discredit Mr. Delgado. He accused Mr. Delgado of ordering NPA members to kill Lt. Col Randolph Cabangbang. Such baseless accusations only reflect Del Rosario’s arrogance over due process of law in pointing out criminal suspects and his use of the media in sensationalizing the issue with the intention to harass Mr. Delgado.

If people like Mr. Kelly Delgado are silenced, who will speak in behalf of all human rights victims? Who will voice out the injustices and violations against human life? Only a few people are courageous enough to endure the threats and harassment that comes with the job.
As church people, we are commissioned by God to defend human dignity and the sanctity of life; to defend the oppressed and the marginalized. God created us in His own image, thus, we are all created equal. We have equal rights of existence and with equal rights over all resources that God provided for us.

Genesis 9:6 says,“Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image.” Impunity, therefore, is not to be tolerated!

We challenge the administration of President Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino Jr. to abandon the counter-insurgency program, Oplan Bantay Laya (OBL), which is being used as a mechanism to systematically abuse and oppress leaders, activists and critics that they branded as “terrorists.”

We believe that P-Noy’s “daang matuwid” should not mean silencing legitimate dissent and the people’s clamor for justice and lasting peace. To trail “daang matuwid” is to uphold the rights of God’s creations - the right to a life with dignity and the right to fight for a just and democratic society.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

The Defend Kelly Delgado, Defend All Human Rights Defenders is a Movement whose cause is engraved in its name.

It is a joint effort of different religious organizations, institutions, church workers, peace and human rights advocates in response to series and recent threat to life of staunch human rights Kelly Delgado and all Human Rights Defenders in the course of their service to advance and uphold basic and internationally promoted human rights of peasants, workers, indigenous peoples, the urban poor and other oppressed sectors.

FOR REFERENCE:

SR. ETTA BANAYO, ma

2732669

Church group lauds Sara’s preference on peace talks over heavy combat mil ops vs insurgency

2011-03-09T23:32:00.000+08:00

PRESS RELEASE
July 21, 2010

Davao City – After pronouncing to withdraw the city’s operational assistance to the military’s 1003rd Brigade, city mayor Inday Sara Duterte has earned appreciation from church-based peace advocates under the Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP).

The group said that the local chief executive’s move of pulling out support from the army’s internal security operations (ISO) plan in the hinterlands surrounding the city and her preference to peace talks and social services is laudable and a good start to work on for peace.

“We are happy to hear the ideal asserted by our city mayor. It coincides with our efforts to bring about just and lasting peace through peace talks and not militarization,” said

Duterte has recently announced the pull out of the financial support to the anti-insurgency drive of the Armed Forces of Philippines saying that the counter-insurgency strategy of the military is ‘combat heavy’.

“We are grateful that our leader believes that to solve the root cause of insurgency, the problem should be addressed not through ‘combat heavy’ operations’ but through literacy program and developmental projects. It speaks of a leader who highly considers the respect for human rights,” Bp. Delfin Callao, convenor of EJP said.

The Exodus for Justice and Peace is an aggrupation of church leaders, lawyers, and other human rights advocates who has been recently facilitating the safety release of Prisoners-of-War (POWs) in the region.

The group urges that the local government units should contribute to the efforts of ending the armed conflicts through suporting peace talks.#

An Appeal to Cease Militarization in COMVA

2011-03-09T23:30:00.000+08:00

June 12, 2010

An Appeal to Cease Militarization in COMVAL
to pave the way for the safe release of the four Prisoners of War

We, the family of the four Prisoners of War-- Corporals Marcial
Bawagan, Ariel Asumo, Eduardo Alcala, and militiaman Victor Pitogo,
who were held captive by the New People’s Army (NPA), and members and
leaders of different church groups, peace advocates, and from
different local government units appeal to the officials of the
military’s 10th Infantry Division to hear the clamor for a safe and
expeditious release of the four captives by suspending the military
operations in the hinterlands of Compostela Valley.

We are thankful that the POWs are being treated well by their captors.
We, however, note with concern that as the 10th ID soldiers continue
to scour the fields and conduct military offensives, the lives and
security of the four captives will be endangered, as well as the lives
and the safety of civilians in the villages.

As peace advocates from the church and as local officials, we believe
that the safest and most peaceful means that would expedite the
release of the POWs would be through a negotiated release and an
agreement for SOMO or Suspension of Military Operations. Any
increased hostilities in the field would only lengthen the days of
captivity and risk the lives of the POWs.

We also believe that heightened military operations will pose threats
to the human rights situation and safety of the civilian populace,
more than those of the POWs. Then again, as the previous years have
shown, bombardment of civilian communities have not brought about the
peace and real progress in these far-flung areas but have only
fomented the armed conflict prevailing in our country.

The rights of civilians and that of the POWs are already enshrined in
our basic tenets on international humanitarian law and international
protocols guiding the civil war in our country. We are hopeful that
the laws would protect the POWs and that of the civilians, by way of
vigilance of the local governments, the church and other
non-government entities, and most especially, by way of full
cooperation on the part of the 10th ID.

We, thus, reiterate our appeal to the officials of the Philippine
Army’s 10th Infantry Division to immediately stop its military
operation. We also appeal to the newly installed Benigno 'Noynoy'
Aquino administration to abandon the inhuman policy of all-out war
counter-insurgency program and instead, pursue the peace negotiations
in addressing the roots of the armed conflict.###
Signed:
Genie B. Bawagan
Lydie Belle D. Asumo
Jovelyn T. Alcala
Exodus for Justice and Peace

For Reference:
Rev. Jurie Jaime
09198161876

Bishop, church group call to stop military operations for POW’s safe release

2011-03-09T23:29:00.000+08:00

NEWS RELEASE

June 9, 2010

DAVAO CITY – An alliance of church leaders called on the military’s 10^th Infantry Division to cease its military operations to pave the way for the safety release of four soldiers who were held captive by the New People’s Army (NPA) since last month.

Bishop Emeritus Constante Claro of the UCCP and the convenor of the Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP), past similar incidents have already proven that the NPA’s so-called Prisoners of War (POW) were safely released preceded by suspension of military’s “rescue” operations.

EJP cited the previous case of 1Lt. Vicente Cammayo and PO3Eduardo Tumol who were also held captive by the New People’s Army last December 2008. “It was because of the popular clamor and the intercession of church personalities which worked for the suspension of military operations that 1Lt.Cammayo and PO3 Tumol were safely released,” Bishop Claro noted.

"Now, we are yet again calling for another suspension of military operations in Compostela Valley as it holds the key to the safety release of captive Corporals Marcial Bawagan and Ariel Asumo of the AFP detachment in Barangay Limbo, Maco, Corporal Eduardo Alcala, detachment commander in Barangay Anitapan, Mabini and militiaman Victor Pitogo," he said.

The four soldiers have been held captive since the first week of May. New People’s Army also claimed recently that the all-out offensive military operations stands as the biggest standing block of early release.

“We believe that peace negotiations and not military offensives must be the order of the day. Military operations will only put the lives of the soldiers in danger, as well as the lives of the civilian populace,” Bishop Claro said.

“We hope that this government abandon the policy of all-out offensives against its purported enemies and instead resume the peace negotiations,” he said.

Exodus for Justice and Peace is a peace group formed by different church groups, lawyers, doctors and other professionals. #

For reference:

Bishop Constante Claro

221-6920

Teachers, peace advocates recite poems for martyred Rebelyn

2011-03-09T23:28:00.000+08:00

NEWS RELEASE

March 3, 2010

1st year death anniversary

Teachers, peace advocates recite poems for martyred Rebelyn

DAVAO CITY – Exodus for Justice and Peace sponsored a song and poetry night as a tribute to Rebelyn Pitao, two days before family and members will mark her 1st year death anniversary on March 5.

Rebelyn, daughter of NPA leader Leoncio “Ka Parago” Pitao, was abducted, tortured and brutally killed, which sparked an outpouring of protest and concern from church people, academe and other groups. The EJP, Rebelyn's family and other groups pointed to members of the intelligence unit of the 10th Infantry Division as responsible for the killing.

“We pray at the same time, express our disgust over the fact that one year after Rebelyn was killed, her rapists and killers are still out there, protected by the very institution that is constitutionally bound to protect the people. The culture of impunity is everywhere. Such impunity is not just in Maguindanao, it is also alive here in our region, where state-sponsored violence is occuring,” Aglipayan Bishop Delfin Callao,Jr., Exodus for Justice and Peace convenor said.

The group will feature poems written for Rebelyn by different writers including a Fil-Am writer from the United States. A line from one poem written by Melanie Dulfo of Gabriela-USA reads “Maybe, they made a mistake.Thinking that / Your name marked you/ As one of those feared / In our society that’s been steeped / In dirt / (Something even / The trapos could not freshen up) / They should kill you.”

Most of the poems which will be read are written by teachers from the University of the Philippines, who are also members of ACT Teachers partylist, a group firmly closely monitoring Rebelyn's case. Rebelyn was a 20-year old substitute teacher from Saint Peter’s College of Toril.

“We need to continue our fight for justice in any form, in any way we can. We need to send the message to the perpetrators of this violence that we will never forget what they have done, we will never stop in fighting for justice and we will never cower in fear,” Bishop Callao said.

The activity was attended by church leaders, teachers from other provinces and other human rights advocates.###

FOR REFERENCE:

Bishop Delfin Callao

Convenor

Exodus for Justice and Peace

Peace group expresses concern vs Alsa Masa smear campaign

2011-03-09T23:27:00.000+08:00

PRESS RELEASE

February 10, 2010

DAVAO CITY – The Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP) expressed today their concern over the smear campaign against progressive partylist groups saying that this abets gross human rights violations.

EJP cited the paid advertisement by partylist ANAD, published in local dailies last December 29, 2009, identifying the progressive partylists groups Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, Gabriela Women’s Party, ACT Teachers Partylist and Kabataan Partylist as fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

“The Alliance for Nationalism and Democracy (ANAD) is circulating a pamphlet attempting to agitate Davaoenos to revive the ALSA MASA. It is a fact that during the height of the presence of Alsa Masa in the city, bodies turn up almost on a daily basis; one village in Agdao has been so named because of the group's notoriety during its heyday," said Rev.Jurie Jaime of the Exodus for Justice and Peace.

“ANAD is clearly provoking the Davaoenos to revive a group that is known to commit gross violation of human rights,” he said.

"The election should be an exercise of the Filipinos democratic aspirations. Unfortunately, in our country where the election is dominated by the ruling elite, election has been a regular display of barbarity and sheer abuse of power," the church leader added.

EJP is also urging the local government to look into the matter. "We urge our local government to give due protection to the marginalized candidates or groups especially those that advance nationalist programs," Rev. Jaime said.#

For reference:

REV. JURIE JAIME

0919-816-1876

Peace group appeals for 'decriminalization' of NPA leader

2011-03-09T23:26:00.000+08:00

PRESS RELEASE:
February 1, 2010

DAVAO CITY – The Exodus for Justice and Peace called on the Arroyo government and the military to respect the International Humanitarian Laws in dealing with arrested New People's Army leader "Ka Jinggoy."

Convenor of the Exodus for Justice and Peace (EJP) and Aglipayan Bishop Delfin Callao said "While the military has made a show of providing medical care for Ka Jinggoy or Elizalde Canete, prisoners of war like him should also be accorded respect for his political beliefs where, in the pursuit of such, he should not be charged with criminal cases."

The EJP supports the call of the decriminalization of political prisoners. The IHL also known as the Law of Armed Conflict stipulates the protection of human rights including those combatants who are wounded in armed conflicts.

“However, the IHL also means the recognition of the rights of other party in pursuing political beliefs. NPA leaders like Ka Jinggoy should be accorded with their rights as a political prisoner,” Bp. Callao said.

The group reacted to the statements of the military accusing Canete of a number of criminal cases like kidnapping and arson saying that "he is not a mere bandit; his actions are part of the revolutionary cause which he believes in."

“We fear that with the mercenary tradition of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Ka Jinggoy will be subjected to inhumane and cruel treatment given that he was a known NPA leader who led to the capture of AFP Corporal Dominador Alegre last year and Special Forces 1Lt Vicente Cammayo on 2008,” he added.The EJP facilitated for the speedy release of the two captives.

The Aglipayan bishop also said that “as signatory of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and the International Humanitarian Law the Government of the Republic of the Philippines should fully observe the respect for human rights of its prisoner of war.”

"We are also appealing for the resumption of the peace talk between the NDF-GRP to table substantial agenda and issues and address the roots of the armed conflict," Bp. Callao concluded.#

For reference: Bishop Delfin Callao, (082) 300-5397

Local amateur bands to "rock" vs rights abuses, political killings in two-day concert

2011-03-09T23:25:00.000+08:00

PRESS RELEASE

December 04, 2009

Davao City-- Rage against Impunity and Extrajudicial Killings through rock songs that depict social injustices , impact of militarization and lives fallen in senseless extrajudicial killings are the main content of the songs to be featured in a rock concert initiated by the Exodus for Justice and Peace.

The said concert dubbed as “Tugtugang Bayan”, is set on December 5 and 6 and will be held in Rizal Park and Taboan, Matina Town Square respectively from 6:00 pm -12 midnight.

Featuring local amateur bands in Davao City and their newly composed songs depicting the human rights situation, the rock concert also will pay tribute to the victims of the Ampatuan massacre.

Participating Bands of the “Tugtugang Bayan” include the Agos band, Busilak, Dalita, Tribal flame. Position for Sale, Summer Hill, Flower Children, Orange Mother, Kamaggong, Phax and Friends and Mary. Bands from Pukaw-Dabaw (pundok Kultura ug Awit sa Dabaw) such as Kawsa, Notes of Papa, 4grid and Spasm will also showcase their performance.

Aside from rock music, some performing bands will also be playing music from other genre this such as reggae, and rap metal.

Sponsors of the event include Inpeace Mindanao, Kingprinters, Matina Town Square, Vice-Mayor Sara Duterte, IFM and RMN radio stations, 13thwitch Studio and Davaotoday newsonline.

The rock concert, which will be free for public viewing, is part of the activities spearheaded by the Exodus for Justice and Peace in commemoration of the Human Rights Day on December 10.###

For reference:

Bishop Delfin Callao

Raniro Tacang, Event Head Organizer 0928-2946030

Mindanaoans on human rights summit say Never Again to Martial Law

2011-03-09T23:24:00.000+08:00

NEWS RELEASE

December 5, 2009

Davao City - Almost 500 delegates of the summit coming from various provinces in Mindanao chanted “Never Again to Martial Law” today in opposition to the Arroyo government’s declaration of Martial Law last night.

The calls resonated during the 2^nd Mindanao Human Rights Summit held in the city which is attended by delegates from the church, academe, indigenous people, and other non-government organizations from all over Mindanao.

“We have to oppose it right at this very moment to register that we will never ever again allow a dictator to ruin the efforts of promoting peace and justice," said Bishop Delfin Callao, Jr., convenor of the Exodus for Justice and Peace.

“The declaration of Martial Law in Maguindanao comes as a danger that has been bound to happen to save the face of President Arroyo for her accountability in the Ampatuan massacre,” Callao said.

“We should learn our lesson that the declaration of martial law is tantamount to allowing more gross human rights violations to be inflicted against the people especially those who are vocal critics of the government. And let us not forget that without the respect of human rights there can be no genuine peace and justice,” he said.

For her part, Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Leila de Lima condemns the declaration of Martial law and believes that it is not anymore needed just to apprehend the perpetrators of the massacre.

De Lima gave a speech on the Human Rights Situation in Mindanao during the summit. Also present was Nick Taylor, Development Councilor of the European Union.

For reference: Bishop Delfin Callao, Jr.

3005397

Rebelyn’s case highlighted in pilgrimage for justice

2011-03-09T23:23:00.002+08:00

PRESS RELEASE
December 4, 2009

DAVAO CITY – The killing of Rebelyn Pitao, daughter of NPA Commander
Leoncio a.k.a “Parago” Pitao will be brought to fore by more than 100
members of various nongovernment organizations led by the Exodus for
Justice and Peace in the convergence of peace advocates, collectively
called "the pilgrims for justice."

The contingents coming from Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley
Province, Davao del Sur and North Cotabato will meet first in Tagum
City where a brief ceremony for Rebelyn will be held.

In Davao City, the pilgrims from Southern Mindanao Region will then
converge with more than 300 pilgrims coming from Dipolog City,
Cotabato City, General Santos City, and Surigao del Sur.

According to Bishop Delfin Callao, Jr. of Iglesia Filipina
Independiente, the pilgrims for justice will bring to fore issues of
gross human rights violations in Mindanao “especially cases of the
victims of development aggression in mining areas and the rampant
political killings in the region, the most notorious of whom is that
of the rape-slay of Rebelyn Pitao."

Recently, the father of New People's Army Commander Ka Jinggoy was
found dead in Brgy. Baylo, Monkayo. He bore nine gunshot wounds.

“This pilgrimage is a significant gathering for the victims of human
rights violations in Mindanao, drawing strength from the collective
spirit of anguish and struggle for justice,” Callao said.
“The pilgrims from Surigao del Sur, will meet with the pilgrims from
Southern Mindanao in Tagum City and will hold a brief ceremony at the
Rebelyn marker located in Carmen, Panabo City. They will then proceed
here in Davao City,” he said.

The groups will then attend the 2nd Mindanao Human Rights Summit which
is being spearheaded by the nongovernmental InPeace Mindanao, along
with Kawagib Alliance for the Advancement of Moro Human Rights,
Sisters’ Association in Mindanao, Exodus for Justice and Peace
Southern Mindanao, Panaw Kalinaw Northern Mindanao, Lihuk Kalinaw
Western Mindanao, Hustisya Kalinaw Socsksargen, Karapatan and the
Promotion of Church People’s Response.###

For reference:
Bishop Delfin Callao Jr.
300-5397

Bishop hails release of Alegre, reiterates call to pursue peace talks

2011-03-09T23:23:00.001+08:00

News Release
November 16, 2009

DAVAO CITY- Aglipayan Bishop and convenor of peace group Exodus for Justice and Peace Bishop Delfin Callao, Jr. hail the successful release of prisoner-of-war Corporal Dominador Alegre who was held captive by the New People’s Army for almost two weeks. The POW was turned over to Bishop Callao and Monkayo Vice Mayor Avelino Cabag.

“We, from the Exodus for Justice and Peace hail the successful and orderly release of Corporal Alegre today. We congratulate all the parties who have sought to peacefully resolve the POW crisis,” Bishop Callao said.

According to Callao, “Alegre’s release demonstrates the importance of dialogue, peace advocacy and the cooperation of concerned sectors in calling for a peaceful resolution on the issue of the Prisoners of War”.

Alegre was released at Sittio Logdeck, Brgy. Prosperidad in Montevista yesterday by the 4th Pulang Bagani Command under the Merardo Arce Command of the New People's Army. Also present during the release were members of human rights group Karapatan, Bayan Muna spokesperson Ariel Casilao and other members of the religious community and local government officials.

“The government and the military should learn fast the need to address the issue of militarization and its impact on the communities of poor farmers, womenfolk and children,” he said.

Callao believes that the successful release of Alegre stresses the need for a deeper understanding on the root causes of armed conflict and addressing the ills the society attendant to these causes.

“The government must resume peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front (as well as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front),” he said. #

For Reference:

Bishop Delfin Callao

Convenor