via Eunice Samonte
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – Troops under Eastern Mindanao Command affirmed their commitment to adhere to the International Human Rights (IHR) and support International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in the different Military Camps all over Eastern Mindanao during the flag raising and simultaneous recitation of the Pledge of Commitment on August 7, 2017.
EMC Commander Lt. General Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero reminded the troops during the simultaneous pledge of commitment that it is one of the imperatives of all aspects of Military operations to adhere to IHL at all times, specially in the implementation of Martial Law.
Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff, General Eduardo M. Año, put emphasis on the respect of human life and dignity in his message which was read during the ceremony.
“Peace is not constrained to non-violence and the absence of war rather, we recognized that peace can only be just and lasting if it is based on respect for life, human rights and dignity” Gen. Año said.
Gen. Año also commended the troops for their unwavering efforts to ensure adherence to the IHL.
“I would like to commend our frontline commanders and troops for exerting diligent effort to ensure adherence to the IHL.I therefore urge every soldier that while we work and perform our duties with deeper sense of urgency to finally end all internal armed conflicts, let us also stay true with our core values to serve and protect our people and help communities thrive with peace, security and stability.” the message said.
Executive Order 134 dated July 31, 2017 mandated the celebration of International Humanitarian Law Day every August 12, 2017 of every year. (EASTMINCOM-PR)
