The Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA) raises alarm over the intensifying military operations of the 503rd Brigade, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in Pinukpuk, Kalinga. General Gulliver Señires, Commanding Officer of the 5th ID, recently declared that operations will continue until alleged NPA members surrender, even stating that the military would use its “left hand for peace and right hand for violence.” CHRA strongly condemns this pronouncement, which openly threatens violence and undermines genuine efforts for peace. Excessive force has been used in these operations, violating International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the principles of necessity, proportionality, and humanity.
For more than a week, residents have been subjected to lockdown conditions, restricted mobility, food, insecurity, suspended classes, and deepening fear and trauma. The humanitarian crisis is compounded, by heavy rains and landslides, with Pinukpuk under a Yellow Warning as of November 27 and more rains expected in the coming weeks. Continued military operations amidst worsening weather conditions will only exacerbate food insecurity and prolong trauma.
Reports indicate wounded individuals among alleged NPA members, making them hors de combat. Their safety must be guaranteed under IHL. One individual, Arnold Baguilolay, has been captured and is currently held at the Kalinga Police Provincial Office. CHRA calls for assurance of judicial guarantees, transparency, and family access in all cases of detention.
CHRA reiterates its urgent call for a Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) to respect community rights, uphold IHL, and allow humanitarian aid and psychosocial relief to enter Pinukpuk, particularly Barangay Limos, Allaguia, Apatan, and neighboring areas. A SOMO is also necessary to enable the retrieval of missing persons and hors de combat.
Human rights and humanitarian organizations will conduct relief and psychosocial operations on November 30 in affected communities. We call on barangays of Pinukpuk to assert their right to humanitarian aid, urge the Municipal Local Government Unit (MLGU) to facilitate relief entry, and appeal to the Philippine Red Cross and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to assist families and monitor the
situation.
Only through suspension of military operations can humanitarian aid be delivered in a peaceful and orderly manner.