The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) is one with the Filipino people and the rest of the global community in commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Geneva Convention and the 25th Anniversary of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Day, OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez announced yesterday .
According to Galvez, the observance of IHL Month reminds us of the primacy of protecting civilian populations and non-combatants in the midst of armed conflicts. Embracing the principles of IHL will enable us to safeguard innocent lives and become vanguards of justice, mutual respect and equality.
In line with this year’s theme, “75 Years of Commitment to IHL Awareness, Compassion, Peace, Progress: The Strength of IHL in the New Philippines,” we remain resolute in our commitment to end all conflicts, prevent all forms of violence and the resurgence of conflict.
In relation, Johannes Bruwer, head of the International Committee of the red Cross delegation in the Philippines who were also celebrating the 75 anniversary of Th e Geneva Convention, said: “This is an important step on the road to peace.”
“When we have more respect for the rules of war—fewer destroyed homes, fewer war crimes, less cruelty and hatred—some of the roadblocks to sustainable peace-making can be avoided. Whenever the brutality of war is limited by affirming the importance of IHL, this reaffirms our common humanity, “Bruwer stressed.
Decades of internal armed conflicts have displaced many Filipinos across the country, particularly in Mindanao. Although the Philippines is a strong supporter of IHL, ratifying important treaties and passing local IHL laws, Bruwer noted that a bill protecting the rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs) is still a work in progress.
In addition, the obligation to prevent people from going missing and to take all feasible measures to account for persons reported missing is enshrined in the Geneva Conventions. Bruwer said that despite advancements on aspects linked to compensation, the affected families have the right to know from the authorities the fate and whereabouts of their loved ones who went missing due to the 2017 Marawi conflict.
On 12 August, the Geneva Conventions of 1949, which are universally accepted treaties that form thecore of international humanitarian law (IHL) or the rules of war, turn 75.
“As we observe the IHL month, let us work together to further strengthen our efforts in upholding human rights and adhering to the principles of the Philippine Constitution. These will serve as the cornerstones where long-lasting peace and sustainable development can firmly take root and flourish in the country and beyond.
A Happy 75th Anniversary of the Geneva Convention and the 25th Anniversary of IHL Day to all,” Galvez concluded.
