Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Manila (Agenzia Fides) - The Philippines army is under pressure from public opinion since UN envoy Philip Alston accused the military of being responsible for many of the killings of journalist, activists, politicians and union leaders in recent years. At the end of a two week investigation on summary and extrajudicial executions the UN envoy said: “The increased number of extrajudicial executions in recent years can be traced to a strategic change in army tactics to fight the rebellion”. The report said the army was involved in training paramilitary groups to do the ‘dirty work’.
The phenomenon of killings of politicians and members of the opposition in democratic Philippines is growing. According human rights organisation Karapatan since 2001 an estimated 830 killings have been carried out in total impunity.
The UN envoy said the Manila government was responsible for creating an atmosphere of intimidation and for failing to stop the long series of murders which continues. The most recent victim was Hernani Pastolero aged 64, editor of Lightning Courier weekly published in Sultan Kudarat on the island of Mindanao.
Meeting with president Gloria Arroyo Mr Alston said the Melo Commission Report drafted by the independent body containing names of army officers to be taken to court, should be made public.
The Philippines Bishops have frequently denounced the chain of violence in the country and also called for the publication of the Melo Report. Bishop Oscar Cruz and Bishop Antonio Ledesma said the report “must not remain hidden it must reach public opinion even though its contents may be embarrassing”.
High ranking army officers have denied all the accusations and said the UN Report “lacks transparency” and is full of “non proven charges”. The Report names generals who failed to prevent or stop illegal activity of officers and troops. The question is a critical point in Philippines politics as the country prepares for general elections in May. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 26/2/2007 righe 27 parole 278)
