The Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA) called for ensuring the safety of civilians and respecting human rights and international humanitarian law (IHL) amid reports of successive encounters between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and New People’s Army (NPA) members in Apayao. Four battles reportedly occurred in Barangay Maragat, Kabugao on April 5, 7, and 10.

The 5th ID and Joint Task Force Tala under the Philippine Army Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) themselves announced using heavy weaponry, including helicopters and jet fighters.

CHRA expressed alarm over these military operations and their possible impact on civilian communities. “We urge all involved parties to strictly adhere to and uphold the principles of IHL and provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Humanitarian Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL),” said the group.

Nolcom additionally ordered mobilizing the largest number of military units for focused military operations (FMO) with the goal of crushing what they claim are the “remaining forces” of the NPA in Northern Luzon. It also instructed all units to establish “strategic blockades,” strengthen coordination with the Philippine National Police as well as medical facilities, and various agencies against the people’s army. AFP is also colluding with the Cabugao mayor to “force the surrender” of NPA red fighters.

The Communist Party of the Philippines denounced the ongoing military operations in Apayao. Party information officer Marco Valbuena said, “indiscriminate bombing and shelling in Kabugao cause widespread fear, and endangers lives and properties of the masses.” Valbuena added, “bombing clearly targets areas near civilian communities to intimidate peasants and other toiling masses with the aim of subduing them under military power and thereby depriving NPA of support.”

“With the broad and deep support of peasant masses and indigenous peoples in Apayao and other parts of the region, we trust that revolutionary fighters will overcome AFP’s harsh and brutal encirclement to continue defending oppressed masses in Cordillera and serving their interests,” Valbuena stated.

He further added, “AFP will certainly fail in their fascist vile plan to crush the revolution in Cordillera.”

Meanwhile, CHRA emphasized that AFP must be reminded of its obligations to respect and uphold human rights and IHL at all times, especially given its record for severe human rights violations against civilians and the hors de combat.

“They must refrain from the use of excessive force, especially in populated areas, and ensure that military operations do not endanger civilian lives or violate their rights,” CHRA added.

The group called on government agencies such as the Commission on Human Rights, local government of Apayao, and humanitarian organizations to monitor the situation and act to ensure community rights. They also urged Apayao residents to report cases of human rights violations related to military operations so these can be addressed.