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RHRC Regional Human Rights Commission

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

Cotabato City

Accomplishment Report 2014

Upholding Human Rights,

Sustaining Peace

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Creation

The Regional Human Rights Commission (RHRC) was created under

Section 16, Article III of Republic Act 90451 which provides:

Sec. 16. Human Rights Commission. — There is hereby created a

Regional Human Rights Commission. The Chair and two Commissioners of

the commission shall be appointed by the President upon recommendation

of the Regional Governor. The composition of the commission shall reflect

the ethnic distribution of the population of the autonomous region. The

chair shall be a lawyer and shall be a resident of the autonomous region.

The two commissioners shall, preferably, be lawyers or, at least, holders of

bachelor degrees from colleges or universities recognized by the

Department of Education, Culture and Sports of the central government or

national government.

The Regional Human Rights Commission shall perform within the

autonomous region, the functions of the commission on human rights of

the central government or national government. Decisions of the

commission may be appealed to the Court of Appeals on questions of law.

Initially, the Regional Assembly shall fix the salaries, perquisites, and

privileges of the chair and the commissioners of the Commission at a level

not lower than those fixed for the chair and members of the National

Labor Commission. The Commission may provide additional functions to

enhance and protect the human rights of all the people in the autonomous

region. Thereafter, subject to availability of funds, the Regional Assembly

may raise the salaries, perquisites, and privileges of the chair and

commissioners.

On July 7, 2012, the Regional Legislative Assembly of the ARMM

enacted Muslim Mindanao Act 2882 otherwise known as "ARMM Human

Rights Commission Charter of 2012.” It also enunciates its policy to “to

1 AN ACT TO STRENGTHEN AND EXPAND THE ORGANIC ACT FOR THE AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO, AMENDING FOR THE

PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6734, ENTITLED 'AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO', AS AMENDED.

2 AN ACT OPERATIONALIZING SECTION SIXTEEN ARTICLE THREE OF REPUBLIC ACT 9054, ESTABLISHING A CHARTER FOR THE HUMAN RIGHTS

COMMISSION IN THE AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO, PROVIDING GUIDELINES FOR ITS OPERATIONS, APPROPRIATING FUNDS

THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

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value the dignity of every human person and guarantee full respect for

human rights. The State and the ARMM shall give the highest priority to

the enactment of measures that protect and enhance the right of all the

people to human dignity.”3 It also ensures that RHRC operates based on the

twin principles of independence and regional autonomy, in conformity with

the Paris Principles. RHRC, in accordance with the Paris Principles and other

United Nations’ Resolutions pertaining to the effective functioning of

national human rights institution, is an independent regional office within

the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) that has the same

powers and mandates as the national Commission on Human Rights (CHR).

In order to strengthen its independent its Charter is explicit that it is

not subject to instruction or orders from the President, Congress, Judiciary,

ARMM Regional Governor or Regional Legislative Assembly. It shall have a

mutual, coordinative, and complimentary relationship with the national CHR

in the performance of its mandates and obligations. It shall coordinate its

programs and policies with the national CHR and the Office of the Regional

Governor of the Autonomous Region. It has full fiscal autonomy within the

ARMM and the approved annual appropriations of the Regional

Commission within the General Appropriations Act of the ARMM shall be

automatically and regularly released.

Vision

A peaceful, just and empowered Bangsamoro society that is free from fear

and want, where human rights are promoted, protected, upheld and fulfilled

for the achievement of sustainable development.

Mission

The RHRC is an independent institution imbued with probity and

competence to promote, protect, uphold, and fulfill human rights in the

3 Sec. 2, MMA 288

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Bangsamoro by empowering communities for the progressive realization of

their rights, and ensure that those responsible comply with human rights

standards towards transformative justice, peace and development.

Key Results Areas (KRAs)

KRA No. 1 To Institutionalize Human Rights in the Bangsamoro and Other Government

Bodies Operating in the Region

KRA No. 2 To Incorporate Human Rights in Governance and Development in LGUs.

KRA No. 3 To Protect Women, Children and Persons with Special Concerns

KRA No. 4 To Protect Internally Displaced Persons, Migrants and Stateless Person in the

Bangsamoro

KRA No. 5 To Incorporate Human Rights in the Peace Process

Core Functions

I. HUMAN RIGHTS PROTECTION

A. Investigative, Monitoring and Ancillary Powers

Monitoring and Investigating

The Aerial Bombing Conducted by Alleged Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines

(AFP)

On the 2nd Week of January 2014, the Basilan Sulu Tawi-Tawi Sub-Regional Office

(BSTSRO) was monitoring alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) who injured

students of a local Madrasah in Basilan. A Press Statement was issued by RHRC

condemning the act and cautioning the security sector from conducting operations which

put the lives of innocent civilians, especially minors, at risk.

From Sulu, a complaint reached the BSTSRO alleging extortion activities

perpetrated by an alleged state security operative who represented to relatives of accused

Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members detained in the Special Intensive Care

Area (SICA)-2 of Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City that the latter will be released upon

payment of certain sums of money. A similar complaint was received from Basilan.

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Monitoring and Investigating

Torture Cases in Basilan

In Basilan, three cases of alleged unlawful arrests and two cases of alleged torture

were documented and investigated. In Sulu, aside from cases that have resurfaced after

having been inactive for some time, two new cases of alleged unlawful arrest were

documented and investigated. In Tawi-Tawi, one incident of gender-based violence was

documented.

Monitoring and Investigating

Torture Cases in Maguindanao (The Candado Case)

Acting upon a text (SMS) message, the RHRC Maguindanao Provincial Office

(MagPro Team immediately proceeded to Datu Unsay MPS last July 1, 2014 to verify the

complaint of alleged torture of a detained person. The said person was charged for illegal

possession of firearms and ammunition before the Provincial Prosecution Office. MagPro

was able to secure the records of his case and thereafter assisted and advised his relatives

to follow-up his case at the Provincial Prosecution Office. On July 31, 2014, the

complainant was released for having no probable cause to hold him on trial.

There was an incident in Barangay Meta, Datu Unsay, Maguindanao, wherein two

residents who are missing were allegedly last seen in the Alpha Company Detachment

Camp of 45th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army on July 3, 2014. The said residents of

Pamadian, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, ages 14 and 42 years old, were supposed to return

to their home from Barangay Satan, Datu Unsay. This Office deployed a team to initially

conduct information gathering with the Legal Management and Assistance Division head

designate.

Monitoring and Investigating

Enforced Disappearance in Maguindanao (Hill 244 Case)

The MagPro Team learned last July 4, 2014 that MOHAMAD ABDULKARIM, 42

years old, and his son MEHAD MOHAMAD, 14 years old have been missing since July 3,

2014. The two are residents of Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao. They were last

seen in the national highway in Datu Unsay along the detachment camp of 45th Infantry

Battalion, Alpha Company, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army. The Maguindanao

Provincial Team, the relatives of the victims and members of Kawagib and Sujara

Bangsamoro went to the detachment of 45th I.B., Charlie Company, Hill 224, Brgy. Kabinge,

Datu Saudi Ampatuan. Brgy, Kagawad Ernesto Manuel Sangcupan said that there are three

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military detachments in the vicinity of their barangay. The 45th IB detachments are located

in Piris Hill, Kinugitan Hill and in Hill 224 which is their headquarters and where the team

had able to engage with Detachments’ Officer-in-Charge.

The team had difficulties in verifying the information about the possible location of

the victims in the other 45th IB detachments in Brgy. Kabinge and in conducting

appropriate investigation. The inspections in the 45th IB quarters were not discreet in the

absence of Court Order. The road condition going to the site where the victims were

possibly incarcerated as our informers hinted to us were almost beyond reach.

Monitoring and Investigating

GSKP and Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao Field Monitoring

The Maguindanao Provincial Office received information about the death of two

members of the 45th I.B. last October 22, 2014. The incident took place around 8:00 in the

evening in IPHO Maguindanao, LiMagPROngo, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan. The perpetrators

shot the two soldiers and took their service firearms. Sources reveal that no civilian was

hurt in the said incident.

The MagPro team continues to monitor the said case.

Monitoring and Investigating

Enforced Disappearance in Lanao del Sur

The RHRC Lanao Del Sur

Provincial Office (LDSPO) has received

reports of dead bodies thrown in

dumped areas or in the lake. The

office has verified the existence and

truthfulness of the fact thru its quick

respond team. Thus, a meeting with

PNP Marawi City, PNP Saguiaran and

PNP Provincial Office was held last

December 8, 2014.

It was observed that the responding team lacks the necessary facilities, constraining

their ability to retrieve the cadaver. Furthermore, the lack of a morgue wherein human

remains can be kept while under investigation or while waiting for the claimants is a

RHRC-LDSPO Staff with the PNP Marawi City, PNP

Saguiaran and PNP Provincial Office

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challenge being experienced. Consequently, this needs an immediate response, considering

the right of a dead body to be given due respect and proper treatment.

Monitoring

EM’s village demolition by Armed Forces of the Philippines

Several homeowners at` EM’s Village furnished the MagPro of their letter-query on

the legality of future demolition of their houses located in Bo. EM’s Village, Awang, DOS,

Maguindanao by the 6th ID Kampilan Division. On actual ocular inspection, it was found

out that there is no actual demolition made by the Philippine Army. No civilian houses

were demolished. A motion asking the court for issuance of TRO is filed by the

complainant homeowners association. MagPro monitors this case.

Monitoring and Investigation

Ambush in Sitio Lumapid

The Sulu Human Rights Monitoring Center (HRMC) monitored the developments

surrounding the Eid Day ambush in Sitio Lumapid, Barangay Talipao Proper, Talipao, Sulu.

The Center coordinated with local police and ensured that cases are filed against the

perpetrators before the provincial prosecutor’s office. In addition, the HRMC drafted the

Commission’s press statement regarding the incident.

Case Monitoring

Ambush in South Upi

The MagPrO generated a spot report from the South Upi municipal police station

on an ambush case in the area. The reports show that the ambush was carried out by

three unidentified persons. Ambush resulted to the death of the following: Brgy. Chairman

Perfecto Travilla (44 years old), Jayson Mundo (16 years old) and Alex Tumbaga (29 years

old). Analyn Benito (30 years old), daughter-in-law of Travilla was also injured. At least 11

individuals on board a Toyota Land Cruiser were ambushed in Sitio Linangkat, Brgy.

Pandan. The MagPro is still monitoring the case.

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B. Legal Assistance and Aid Program

Hostage Incident in Guindulungan, Maguindanao

The MagPro recorded and monitored the hostage incident in Barangay

Macasampen, Guindulungan. Local government officials, line-agencies and authorities

succeeded to prevent harm and imprisoned the hostage taker. The suspect withheld a six

year old child and believed to be influenced by illegal usage of dangerous drugs. RHRC

MagPro was able to interview the local police and was able to get extracted police blotter.

Case on Marcos Victims Claims

On April 21, 2014, the MAGPRO gathered information regarding a complaint

against their family relative in regard to the Marcos Victims Claims. The investigator,

Abdillah Alik, on case dialogued with the barangay local chief executive and other family

members to resolve the feud among their family.

Zamboanga Siege Detainees

To strengthen RHRC’s

partnership with government and

non-government organizations

(NGOs), a series of meetings was

conducted. A meeting with a

Commissioner and a Legal Officer of

the National Commission on Muslim

Filipinos (NCMF) tackled areas of

cooperation between the RHRC and

the NCMF in the legal representation

of Zamboanga Siege IDP-detainees,

including alleged eleven (11) minor-

detainees. Further, for the protection of the minor-detainees arrested during the

Zamboanga Siege, the RHRC has worked closely with the Nonviolent Peaceforce (NP).

Meeting with some officials of the NCMF regarding the

welfare of Zamboanga Siege Detainees under the Legal

Aid Program on January 10, 2014.

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Case conference on Miraato Case and Referral of Balindong

Case to RHRC LDSPO

Monitoring the arrest of Moro Islamic Liberation (MILF) 118th Base Commander Wahid

Tundok

RHRC was informed about the arrest of a certain “Wahid Tundok,” MILF 118th Base

Commander, on February 23, 2014 at the Matampay Bridge, Cotabato City. The arrest was

conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) Criminal Investigation and Detection

Group (CIDG). Tundok has been under military custody since said date. CIDG-ARMM

P/Superintendent Jovit Culaway said that Tundok has been sought by the authorities for

several arson and other criminal charges. Culaway explained that Tundok was considered a

high-value target and a security risk.

RHRC MAGPRO monitored the case of Tundok in relation to the mandate of the

RHRC “to monitor the government’s compliance with its international human rights treaty

obligations.” The team learned that Tundok attended a meeting in Camp Darapanan on

February 23, 2014 and was flagged down by authorities in Matampay Bridge. Other

pertinent facts were gathered from the investigation and monitoring.

Reports on the Alleged Extortion Committed Against Relatives Of Detainees In Sica-2

In February, the BSTRO received follow-up reports on the alleged extortion

committed against relatives of detainees in SICA-2. The BSTSRO also received reports of

the alleged frustrated murder of an NGO worker; special gender concerns; alleged enforced

disappearance and a case of hazing in a detention facility in Zamboanga City. Cases of

violence against women and displacement of persons as a result of armed violence were

gathered from Basilan; the activities for the development of rural cooperatives, ensuring

the enjoyment of socio-economic rights by marginalized sectors in the area were also

monitored.

Case conference on Miraato Case and Referral of Balindong Case to RHRC LDSPO

LDSPO participated in a case conference

on Abegail Miraato’s case as well as in

the formal referral/turn-over by Mr.

Nassif Numiery Padate, Legal Officer of

LGU Picong of the case of Alizaman

Balindong, et al.

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Alleged HR Violation: Illegal Discharge of Firearms and Physical Injury

On March 06, 2014, this Office facilitated the mediation of two parties involving a

police officer based in Police Regional Office (PRO ARMM) and a civilian of Barangay

Poblacion I, Parang, Maguindanao. On March 14, 2014, the complainant and his witness

were not around for the second attempt at mediation, so was the respondent. The Chair

ordered a second call and waited for sufficient time for the parties to arrive. At around

10:45 AM, the mediation team declared adjournment.

Alarming Influx of Reports of Kidnappings and Other Criminal Activities in the

Province of Sulu

The month of March started with an alarming influx of reports of kidnappings and

other criminal activities in the Province of Sulu, including the kidnapping of a minor while

the latter was on his way to school. The BST SRO has monitored at least six (6) such

incidents in Sulu for the month alone. The SRO also investigated and monitored a case of

massacre in Siasi, Sulu arising from a long-standing land dispute involving state actors and

local government officials.

In response to the above-described situation, the RHRC issued a Press Statement

condemning the subject acts and called on all stakeholders and responsible officers to act

in their respective capacities to uphold the rights of Sulu constituents to security and

freedom of movement.

Filing of Criminal case at the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office

RHRC LDSPO assisted in the filing of

a criminal case at the Provincial

Prosecutor’s Office, by complainant

Abdullah Nandi Cabugatan, whose

minor daughter, Olambae

Cabugatan was abducted and held

for a couple of weeks by her

alleged captor Mamaroba Gaosil.

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BSTRO Monitoring Activities

The BST SRO special investigators inquired into the previously documented HRVs: a

meeting with the relatives of MNLF members was conducted in Jolo, Sulu to inquire about

the alleged extortion. Moreover, the detainees’ families were provided with updates on the

present stage of the judicial process. In Basilan and Tawi-Tawi, the office monitored a

kidnapping incident in Sumisip town and a TIP incident in Bongao, respectively.

Consultation in Assisting Human Rights Victims Claims Board

RHRC was invited for a consultative meeting with the Human Rights Victims Claims

Board. This meeting aimed to level off the understanding of the stakeholders regarding the

process of verifying the victims’ claims during the Martial Law and the mandates and

functions of the Claims Boards.

Release of a Minor

The LDSPO facilitated the release of a minor who was accused of theft and was

subjected to physical injury by the community. The LDSPO team also assisted the

complainant in preparing the required document in filing criminal case against the

attackers of the minor. This incident happened in barangay Salam, Marawi City.

Legal Aid Program for 22 individuals detained at the Special Intensive Care Area 2 in

Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City

Following the court’s pronouncement ordering the reinvestigation of all individual

cases against suspected MNLF members for their alleged participation in the September

2013 armed conflict in Zamboanga, a deadline for the defence’s submission of counter-

affidavits was set on August 22, 2014.

The RHRC Legal Aid Team, headed by Atty. Edy Lynn S. Santiago, saw it fit to fast-

track Legal Aid activities in order to consolidate the documents available and complete the

counter-affidavits of each client along with supporting affidavit of witnesses. The

investigations and monitoring lead to the release of 8 out of 22 detainees.

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Enforced Disappearance of three (3) captured Moro National Liberation Front

combatants during the September 2014 armed conflict in Zamboanga City

On August 4, 2014, a Sulu HRMC Investigator travelled to Taguig City to interview

the three witnesses the Enforced Disappearance case. All three witnesses are detained at

the Special Intensive Care Area 2 at Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig City.

Draft affidavits of the three witnesses were prepared and submitted for the

Commission’s recommendations.

The RHRC BST SRO, in partnership with the Balay Rehabilitation Center, conducted

a two-day Psycho-Legal, Psycho-Social and Debriefing Activity for the immediate family

and close relatives of the twenty-two (22) Legal Aid Clients represented by the RHRC in a

Pasig City Court hearing their cases.

Atty. Santiago, who heads the legal team defending the clients in Court, provided

an overview of the judicial process involving the detainees. The team from Balay

Rehabilitation Center headed by Social Worker Ms. Imelda T. Rebate, who is the court-

appointed Guardian Ad Litem for the minor detainees, engaged the attendees in a series of

psycho-social and debriefing sessions.

The Sulu HRMC maintains close contact with the next of kin of the Legal Aid

Clients which has been instrumental in the ease of access to supporting affidavits and

other documents in support of their defense in court.

Representing IDPs before the Court

Under the RHRC Legal Aid Program, profiles of clients were gathered and are to be

completed. Nine months after the September 2013 Zamboanga Siege, the detainees’ cases

will finally be heard in Court. BSTSRO Head Atty. Edy Lynn Santiago and the RHRC Legal

Aid Team attended case conferences before the Pasig City Regional Trial Court, Branch

158. Representatives from the prosecution team, Public Attorney’s Office and SICA-2 Jail

Officers were also present. RHRC filed its Entry of Appearance for the twenty (22) clients,

which included seven (7) minors. RHRC filed a Manifestation before the court submitting

the list of names of clients whose cases are to be the subject for reinvestigation.

In addition, RHRC continues its partnership with the NP and partner agencies in the

protection and monitoring of the welfare of the minor-detainees.

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Investigating HRVs

In Basilan, three cases of alleged unlawful arrests and two cases of alleged torture

were documented and investigated. In Sulu, aside from cases that have resurfaced after

having been inactive for some time, two new cases of alleged unlawful arrest were

documented and investigated. In Tawi-Tawi, one incident of gender-based violence was

documented.

Human Rights Victims Claims Board (HRVCB) in-take

After the HRV Claims intake conducted by the HRVCB last July 7-9, 2014 at the

RHRC Regional Office, bulks of HRV Claimants came to office for legal assistance. The

RHRC rendered legal advice, orientation and preparation of legal documents. Referral to

PAO and Notaries Public in Cotabato City were also rendered by the MagPro Team. HRV

Claimants continue to visit the Office for legal assistance. Walk-in clients were also given

legal assistance.

Human Rights Victims Claims Board Intake

A total of 2,100 applicants were catered to during the intake conducted at the

DAF-ARMM. The said activity was spearheaded by the same HRVCB team that was assisted

by RHRC staff and volunteers. Also, a number of applicants from Island Provinces (Basilan,

Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi) were also catered through the Human Rights Monitoring Centers.

Release of Julius Aliman

Julius Aliman is a resident of Brgy. Looy, South Upi and was charged of Serious

Illegal Detention. This Office facilitated the speedy release of Aliman after gathering

relevant information that the plaintiff would execute an affidavit of desistance. The MagPro

conducted a series of consultations, meetings and initial information gathering with the

plaintiff’s neighbors, barangay local government officials and chieftains.

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C. Jail Visitorial and Inspection Powers

A Visit in Basilan Provincial Jail in Isabela City, Basilan

On January 17, 2014, the

RHRC BSTSRO, with Chairperson

Algamar Latiph and then

Commissioner Galuasch Ballaho,

visited the Basilan Provincial Jail in

Isabela City, Basilan.

RHRC BaSulTa Team, with

Chairperson Algamar Latiph and

Commissioner Galuasch Ballaho,

visited the Basilan Provincial Jail in

Isabela City, Basilan on January 17,

2014.

Jail Visit to Maguindanao Provincial Jail and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency

RHRC MAGPRO visited the detention center of the Philippine Drug Enforcement

Agency (PDEA-ARMM) on February 24, and the Maguindanao Provincial Jail on February 25

in relation to the visitorial functions of the RHRC.

The MAGPRO found out that the Maguindanao Provincial Jail did not meet the

minimum standards set forth by laws and international treaty obligations. The detention

cells were observed and described as unlikely to rehabilitate and reform the inmates, which

is the aim of the Philippine penitentiary system. Meanwhile, the PDEA detention center

does not have a medical officer and lacks the facilities needed to address the medical

needs of the detainees.

Inmates in the Maguindanao Provincial Jail Qualified for Parole

The team learned that there are inmates in the Maguindanao Provincial Jail who

are qualified for parole. Such inmates have been imprisoned for more than 10 years.

Department of Health-ARMM conducted a medical consultation headed by Dr.Pancho A.

Cruz and Dr. Ariadne G. Silongan with their staff such as Dyesebel Melicano, Aladdin

Dayaan and Shajid Lidasan. This Office requested the consultation for the inmates after the

visit last February 2014.

Chairperson Atty. Algamar Latiph and Comm. Galuash

Ballaho meeting with the Provincial Warden of Basilan

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The team has not received the list of the detainees with the corresponding details

and status of each case. The said document was requested by this Office dated March 11,

2014.

LDSPO Visit to Provincial Jail

On April 14, 2014, the LDSPO

conducted a field visit to the Provincial Jail,

a regular monthly activity of the LDSPO in

compliance with the mandate of the RHRC

to take a look and assure that the welfare

of the detainees are being given attention

and that their basic human tights are

respected and not violated April 14, 2014.

BaSulTa Sub Regional Office Visited the Detainees at SICA-2

BaSulTa Sub Regional Office Staff visited the detainees at SICA-2 to check on the

detainees’ welfare and to interview the women and minors among them.

Bongao Municipal Jail in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi

In the morning of 20th of August, 2014, Supervising Special Investigator Al-Ghosaibi

Jupli and Special Investigator Raynan Francis Cabato made an on the spot jail

visit/inspection to the Bongao Municipal Jail in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. Upon arrival, it was

observed that the jail guards were courteous and were accommodating. There were interns

from the Mahardika Institute of Technology present, rendering required duty hours as part

of their curriculum. Upon entering the detention cells, it was observed that there was only

one detainee, same with the previous month. All the cells, including the detainee’s, was

very clean and did not smell. Thereafter, the RHRC – HRMC Special Investigators logged in

as required.

In the afternoon of 20th of August, 2014, Supervising Special Investigator Al-

Ghosaibi Jupli and Special Investigator Raynan Francis Cabato made an on the spot jail

visit/inspection to the Provincial Jail in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. Upon arrival, the RHRC – HRMC

Special Investigators were immediately admitted to the premises and conducted to the

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Special Investigators in HRMC Sulu monitoring the

condition of the detention facilities

detention cells. The detainees in the cells upon inquiry were a mix of both accused and

convicted. There existed a smell peculiar to poorly ventilated places. The detainees were all

very courteous and answered questions freely and expressed their opinions well, however,

none had any complaints regarding the facilities.

Sulu Provincial Jail

Sulu HRMC Special Investigators

conducted jail visitation and monitoring at

the Jolo Municipal Jail on July 24, 2014 and

at the Sulu Provincial Jail on July 25, 2014.

The jail visits are aimed at monitoring the

condition of the detention facilities as well

as note the issues and concerns of its

inmates.

In the morning of July 15, 2014, the

RHRC – HRMC Staff visited the Bongao

Municipal Jail. This is in accordance with its mandate to visit jails in the province every

month.

During the visit, the RHRC – HRMC Staff requested from the Jail Administrators to

furnish the office with the list of all detainees together with their personal circumstances,

their cases and its status.

In the afternoon of July 15, 2014, the RHRC – HRMC Staff visited the Tawi-Tawi

Provincial Jail as part of its monthly jail visits. The RHRC – HRMC Staff requested from the

Provincial Jail Warden list of the detainees in said jail. Because of the visit, the team learnt

that the number of detainees in Tawi-Tawi Provincial Jail is 40. Also, the team was informed

that there are detainees whose cases are still pending in courts and there are inmates who

are serving their sentence.

Jail Visit in Maguindanao Provincial Jail

This Office gathered information regarding the death of two (2) detainees in the

subject Jail on July 18, 2014 aired over ABS-CBN on their T.V. Patrol afternoon

broadcasting. Provincial Jail of Maguindanao, located at PC Hill, Cotabato City is under the

direct supervision of Maguindanao Provincial Government. The subject jail has the capacity

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to accommodate an about 100 persons. As of July 2014, they have a total of 137 inmates

based on the data presented to us by their Warden. That in April of this year, RHRC

Maguindanao Office send a letter request asking the Jail Warden to furnish this office on

the updated record, lists and/or inventory of its detainees as mandated under R.A. No.

10353 better known as Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act of 2012 and as part

of the Commissions’ duties and function pursuant to Section 11 of the Muslim Mindanao

Autonomy Act No. 288. The aforementioned request was not yet answered by the Official

of the said Jail up to this time, henceforth; a necessity to talk to the Warden is among the

matters considered in this jail visit.

The team learned that the two inmates suffered skin disease. PGI Akmad

Abdulradzak, a Jail Guard of the subject prison told the team that the two prisoners were

brought to the RHMC, Cotabato City sometimes in the month of June, 2014 on separate

occasions for immediate treatment even without the order from concern Court for

humanitarian consideration. He said that several other inmates in his jail have suffered the

same kind of diseases also. Jail Officials opened to the team their difficulties in terms of

personnel and financial matters. Provisions of foods as well as medicines for their inmates

are more than not enough which contributes to the inhumane situation of the prisoners.

He was requesting our Office to give them a prepared form something like template, in

order for them to just filled it up all the data we need so much so that, it is available with

them.

Jail Visit to Maguindanao Provincial Jail

The MAGPRO team conducted a jail visit to the Maguindanao Provincial Jail which

has its new Jail Warden. One of the findings during the visit was the on-going renovation

of the kitchen. The lock-up cell of the women inmates was also transferred upstairs for

their comfort and convenience.

Jail Visit in Maguindanao Provincial Jail and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency

Pursuant to Sec. 11 of the Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act No. 288, this Office

conducts its regular jail visit and detention centers within the autonomous region. Special

Investigators Raiza Abas and Archad Ayao visits Maguindanao Provincial Jail and Philippine

Drug Enforcement Agency-ARMM both in Barangay Rosary Heights I, Cotabato City.

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Maguindanao Provincial Jail has 150 inmates (140 male; 10 female) and the

International Crescent of Red Cross donated four restrooms, four bathrooms and one

lavatory.

Warden Bukid Baman said that the monthly budget allocated for MPJ amounting

to Php 180,000.00 pesos cannot suffice the needs of the 150 inmates.

This Office has sent request to MPJ of the list of inmates prior the jail visit on

September 16, 2014 but the latter has not yet furnished any kind of list. The investigators

remind the administration of MPJ that it must comply with the provisions of Republic Act

9745 or otherwise known as Anti-Torture Act that “each detention facility, prison, jails are

required to submit their updated list of inmates bimonthly to the Commission on Human

Rights, human rights institutions and other human rights agencies.”

Meanwhile, the PDEA-ARMM repaired the defective restroom for female inmates

on September 17, 2014. There eight male inmates and three female inmates in PDEA-

ARMM detention cell.

The rooms for both male and female inmates are not conducive for sleeping and

they don’t have enough time for recreational activities.

A 17 year old inmate is teMagPROrarily sheltered in PDEA-ARMM Detention Center

with the waiver of the parents as of September 2014. The investigators were informed that

Department of Social Welfare and Development Maguindanao Provincial Office through

Social Welfare Officer Hja. Barbie Guiabel conducted its case study regarding the said case.

More findings and recommendations have been identified by the RHRC MAGPRO.

Jail Visit in Parang Municipal Jail, Maguindanao Provincial Jail and PDEA-ARMM Detention

Cell

Parang Municipal Jail: The team was surprised that the Municipal jail is complete

with all its facilities. The file cases of the inmates were organized and readily open to any

visitor. There are recreational facilities found in the coMagPROund. There is an infirmary

that is available in case of emergency. The only set back is that the medical kit along with

its medicines is already depleted.

PDEA-ARMM Detention Cell: Some changes were made from previous visit such as:

the provision of comfort room for female; the separation of male and female quarters

during the night; and the availability of a nurse who will attend to the medical needs of

the detainees. The team has interviewed at least five (5) detainees. A total of 5 detainees

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are under the custody of PDEA-ARMM, 1 female and 4 male. The team has secured the

data on the names of the prisoners, status of their cases and persons who were admitted

to Davao and Cagayan de Oro rehabilitation centers.

Maguindanao Provincial Jail: The warden was not around during the visit and the

jail officer did not admit the team.

B. HUMAN RIGHTS’ PROMOTION

I. Education and Advocacy

Focus Group Discussion with Non-state Actors

The MAGPRO had a focus group

discussion (FGD) with fifteen members of

the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)

assigned in Barangay Libutan,

Mamasapano, Maguindanao last January

08, 2014. After the discussion, the

MAGPRO was able to gather information

on the human rights issues which concern

the MILF members in this area.

In Lamitan City, Basilan, a consultation-meeting with Civil Society Organizations

(CSOs) was conducted to discuss human rights issues and concerns in the province.

Donate a Hijab: An RHRC Initiative Project

In celebration of the World Hijab

Day last February 01, 2014, the

RHRC launched a project on

February 18, 2014 tagged as

“Donate A Hijab: An RHRC

Initiative project.” A Hijab Drive

was conducted and the collected

pieces of hijab were distributed to

underprivileged women in the

region, such as orphan girls and

widows.

RHRC BaSulTa Team, with Chairperson Algamar Latiph,

conducts a consultation with members of various CSOs

at Lamitan City, Basilan on January 17, 2014.

Some of the recipients of Donate A Hijab

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As of June 2014 more or less three (3) barangays in ARMM became recipients of

this project.

“Lakbay RHRC” goes to Mindanao State University – Maguindanao Integrated

Laboratory Science High School

Last February 17, 2014, the MAGPRO conducted an advocacy campaign among 114

graduating high school students in Mindanao State University-Maguindanao Integrated

Laboratory Science High School. Topics cover basic human rights, child rights and the

Commission’s projects, programs and mandates. Information, Education and Campaign

materials were distributed among the students and the poster was placed inside the faculty

room as part of the advocacy campaign of the Commission.

Young Bangsamoro Women Leaders Conference

The first-ever Young Bangsamoro Women

Leaders Conference kicked off last March

07, 2014 with thirty five participants

gracing the activity held at Sardonyx Plaza,

Cotabato. It aims to provide a venue to

discuss women’s issues; and to share

knowledge on women’s rights. The

following Bangsamoro Women Student

Leaders from different tertiary schools who

attended the said conference. These schools

are Gani L. Abpi College, Inc.; Southern

Philippine Academy College, Inc.; Upi

Agricultural School – Prov. Tech. Inst. of Agriculture; Notre Dame University; and Iliana Bay

Integrated Computer College.

The resource persons of the Bangsamoro

Women Leaders Conference 2014 were

three RHRC staff and Executive Director of

Mindanao Tri-People Women Resource

Center. Atty. Bai Sittie Saida Bailan

enlightened the students with the Basic

Human Rights; Atty. Adjuria Kansi discussed

Active participants writing their thoughts on

women’s human rights

Special Investigator Raiza Abas synthesizing the

output of the participants

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Laws on Women’s Rights; Ms.Josing Demit-Manandil talked about

Women and Conflict; and Special Investigator Raiza Abas

educated the attendees on Role of Women in Strengthening

Human Rights in ARMM.

“Lakbay RHRC goes to Looy Integrated Vocational High School (LIVHS) and Kabuntalan

National High School (KNHS)”

On March 3 and 13, 2014, the

RHRC MAGPRO catered 150 third year

high school students from LIVHS and

100 students from KNHS for the Lakbay

RHRC: Human Rights Advocacy

campaign. Students were informed and

educated regarding the concepts of

human rights and their rights as part of

the youth sector. Information, Education

and Campaign materials were distributed

among the students and a poster was placed

inside the faculty room as part of the advocacy

campaign of the Commission.

The different resource speakers

from this Office discussed the following

topics last February 06, 2014: basic human

rights, child rights, updates on the recent

skirmishes in the province of Maguindanao

last January 27, 2014, Commission’s latest

accomplishments and projects. Listeners

were informed about the Commission’s

functions, mandates and powers.

Lecture on Human Rights over TinigngKabataan of Youth Advocates for Peace and

Development Network (YAPDN)

RHRC Head of Legal Division Atty. Bai Sittie

Saida Bailan

RHRC Regional Office Staffs together with the

head of RHRC Maguindanao Provincial Office,

Atty Abdulnasser Badrudin gives updates on the

skirmishes in Maguindanao last January 27, 2014

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RHRC Joined Alpha Phi Omega Segment Aired over Ranao TV 13

LDSPO joined a television and radio

guesting with the Alpha Phi Omega (APO),

discussing among others the concept of

human rights from the Islamic perspective,

updates on the RHRC’s accomplishments in

2013 and the upcoming activities in 2014.

Child Protection Working Protection Monthly Meeting and Child Protection Rapid

Assessment

On February 13 and 14, 2014, the RHRC attended a CPWG – Mindanao Cluster

meeting. Being a member of said cluster, the RHRC regularly attends its monthly meetings,

wherein issues regarding the protection of children are discussed

Engaging MILF on human rights

LDSPO conducted a field visit and

dialogue with high ranking MILF Official,

Commander Bravo of BIAF Northern

Mindanao Command at Camp Pokhtar,

Wato, Balindong, Lanao del Sur, discussing

among others the roles of the RHRC in the

community.

LDSPO Special Investigator Azrifa Mamutuk

updates the listeners on RHRC’s 2013

accomplishments

Chairperson Atty. Algamar Latiph discusses the role of

RHRC to MILF commander Bravo

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Lecture Orientation to the 200 MILF Women Soldiers (MUJAHIDAT)

The LDSPO conducted a

Lecture Orientation for 200 MILF

Women Soldiers (MUJAHIDAT)at Camp

Pokhtar, BIAF MILF Northern

Command, Wato-Balindong, Lanao del

Sur on March 20, 2014.The orientation

focused on Basic Human Rights, IHL

and UDHR with Highlights on VAWC,

Gender & Development (GAD) issues,

and other related laws concerning

women’s rights.

As part of RHRC’s mandate to educate the community about the issues in human

rights, the Head of the BaSulTa Sub Regional Office (SRO) provided an orientation and

lecture on human rights issues in Mindanao at the Western Mindanao State University

College of Law’s Centro Advocacia Legal (CADLE) Legal Aid and Human Rights Center.

In addition, the BSTSRO accepted Interns under its partnership with Ateneo De Zamboanga

University’s Summer of Service (SOS) Program.

Participation in Socio-Economic Activities:

Public hearing on the alleged mismanagement of the Lano del Sur Electric

Cooperative under the stewardship of Sultan Ashary Maongco. The consultation was

spareheaded by the Committee on Energy of the Congress of the Philippines and was

presided by Hon. Congressman Reynaldo M. Sumali and five (5) more committee members

were present. The consultation was held at New Capitol Gymnasium, Marawi City on March

07, 2014;

48th Celebration of Fire Prevention month, a simultaneous nationwide activity with

a theme “Isulong ang Kaunlaran, Sunog ay Iwasan, Kaalaman at pag-iingatangkailangan;”

Women’s Month Celebration, a month long series of activities conducted by the

Regional Commission on Bangsamoro Women in coordination with the different women

sector and the provincial government; and

Participants are attentively listening to

Commissioner Alikhan Abuat

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BTC Public Consultations on Power Sharing and other concerns relative to the

drafting of Bangsamoro Basic Law held at Baloi, Lanao del Sur.

Lecture on Republic Act 10353, Republic Act 9745 and Extra-Judicial Killing

Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin, together with Special Investigator Abdillah Alik of

MAGPRO shared their inputs regarding Anti-Torture Law, Enforced Disappearance and

Extra-Judicial Killing to the soldiers of the 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army. Soldiers

were oriented about the Commission’s mandates and functions, dos and don’ts of any

government officials in torture and the elements of enforced disappearance.

Lecture on Children in Armed Conflict

Special Investigator Raiza Abas of Maguindanao Provincial Office delivered her

inputs regarding the situation of children in armed conflict in the autonomous region to

the humanitarian workers based in Maguindanao and Cotabato City. She emphasized the

role of the institution in upholding human rights knowledge and highlighted the

collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in eliminating human rights abuses during local war

incidences.

Training on Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team

The Local Government of Upi Municipality, in coordination with the Department of

Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police- Upi, Municipal Disaster Risk

Reduction Management invited the MAGPRO to conduct a two-hour lecture about

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International Humanitarian Law and Bill of Rights (Article 3, Sections 1-22 of the 1987

Philippine Constitution) to 230 members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action teams of

the said municipality.

Commissioner Alikhan O. Abuat explained the Article III of the Philippine

constitution also known as “Bill of Rights” while Atty. Bai Sittie Saida C. Bailan, CPA

discussed the International Humanitarian Law.

HR Advocacy in Mamasapano, Maguindanao

Magungaya Mindanao Inc., a local non-government organization based in

Cotabato City, invited the MAGPRO to conduct human rights advocacy to barangay local

chief executives in the municipality of Mamasapano, Maguindanao. The RHRC introduced

its mandate and jurisdiction to the participants. A background and history of the

organization was briefly discussed. The rights of women under the national law were also

discussed to the participants in relevance with the objectives of the training. Cases of

domestic violence that are rampant in Mindanao became a contentious issue.

The participants were also given a background of human trafficking cases in

Mindanao. A concise background of the principles on internal displacement was also

elaborated.

Hijab Distribution in Shariff Aguak and Buluan

As a continuation of the World Hijab Day celebration, hijabs were distributed to

120 orphans from Shariff Aguak and Buluan municipalities.

Lecture on Human Rights, Media and its Impact on the Community

21 anchor men of Suara were educated on basic human rights and human rights

reporting in broadcast media. It was also emphasized that anchormen should adhere to

the Code of Ethics of Professional Media Practitioners and guidelines of Kapisanan ng mga

Broadkaster ng Pilipinas in doing their duties and functions.

26

Lakbay RHRC goes to Sultan Kudarat Islamic Academy

111 students and 6 faculty members (70 female students; 41 male students; 2

female teachers; 4 male teachers)of SKIA were taught basic human rights and rights of a

child. RHRC had distributed information, education and campaign materials such as key

chains, posters and brochures. SKIA Founder and former congressman Atty. Michael

Mastura shared his idea on human rights in Islam during the open forum. The lecture was

effective that Atty. Mastura invited the MagPro team to conduct its advocacy training to

the college students.

Coordination meeting with CSSH

The RHRC-LDSPO conducted a

coordination meeting with the faculty

members of the College of Social Science

and Humanities (CSSH) of the Mindanao

State University, Main Campus, Marawi City

on July 11, 2014 for the creation of Center

for Human Rights Education (CHRE).

Community-Based Dialogue in Datu Blah Sinsuat

The MagPro Team was able to inform the participants of the rights of women and

children, with particular emphasis on the rights under Republic Act (RA) No. 9054,

otherwise known as “An Act Providing for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao”,

and Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act No. 288, RHRC Charter Act of 2012, also known as

“An Act Operationalizing Section Sixteen Article Three of Republic Act 9054, Establishing a

Charter for the Human Rights Commission in the Autonomous Region in Muslim

Mindanao, Providing Guidelines for its Operations, Appropriating Funds Therefor and for

Other Purposes.” Also, the MagPro team informed the participants on the powers and

functions of the RHRC for them to be educated about the legal aid and investigative

services that the latter may provide, including preventive measures in the protection of

human rights of all persons within the Autonomous Region.

Various human rights issues and concerns in the municipality were identified and

addressed in a discussion led by Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin, Head of the Maguindanao

LDSPO Special Investigator Aminoden Macaradi with

the faculty members of CSSH of MSU Marawi City

27

Provincial Office. Some of the participants raised some matters that they were experiencing

in their community which were duly noted by the Commission for appropriate action.

For the United Nations Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement (UNGPID),Ms.

Edna Pandi, Field Monitor for the UNHCR, gave a brief presentation. Being an area of

conflict, residents of the municipality are prone to displacement and are more likely to face

risks to their physical safety and to lose access to protection and basic rights like food,

water, shelter, work, education.

As such, people in the community are obliged to be informed of the protection

and humanitarian assistance available to them. This includes the Internally Displaced

People’s (IDPs) rights which include basic like clothing, food, water, shelter, essential

medical care, and their right to physical security and physical integrity e.g. killing, torture,

abduction, forced recruitment, and sexual violence.

After the respite, Human Rights in Islam were discussed by Ustadz Guiapar Kantar.

Most of the participants are Muslims and there is a need for them to be informed of their

human rights in the Islamic perspective. The distinguishing feature of human rights in

Islam is that they are the natural outcome of a broader practice of faith, deeds, and social

behavior that Muslims believed are divinely mandated.

A plenary discussion and workshop was then facilitated by Mr. Nurwahid Lakim in

order to assess the human rights situation and identify issues and human right cases in the

community. The common answers of the group are social and economic rights such as the

lack of roads to their places, the lack of schools, and the lack of electricity (Pailaw) and

water supply. Some responded about the problems that they have about family and

violence against women. They asked about if they can interfere with marital dispute that

involves violence. The rights of indigenous people were also asked.

The workshop was reinforced by Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin by answering the

questions and giving more information on human rights specifically on violence against

women and children, indigenous people rights and basic human rights. The team also

plans to write letters to different agencies of the government to resolve the issues on

social and economic rights.

BIAF Training

The RHRC- Maguindanao Provincial Office introduced the mandate of the

commission over the different ARMM provinces. The first and second days tackled basic

28

human rights, international humanitarian law, HR in Islam, IHL in Islam, women and child

rights. The activity served as an avenue in assessing the perception and level of awareness

of the BIAF combatants regarding human rights. The participants are BIAF commanders or

deputy commanders from the different base commands.

On the third day, the MagPro Team chose a particular BIAF camp or detachment in

Maguindanao to host the third day of the activity. However, the BIAF commanders or

deputies from the first and second day spearheaded the training. The MagPro staff

observed as the BIAF commanders relay to their ground troops what they learned from the

first and second day of the training.

Lakbay RHRC in MSU Maguindanao – College of Public Affairs and Governance

The team conducted an advocacy activity before 149 students from the College of

Public Affairs and Governance including two (2) faculty members. This Office is advised to

conduct relevant human rights principles such as violations against women and their

children, anti-human trafficking and UNGPID to the same college and other colleges in

other universities and institutions.

MSU-Maguindanao College of Public Affairs and Governance Dean Hja. Salimbai

Dimalen expressed its gratitude towards this Office citing that it is the first office which

conducts an information drive centered on community eMagPROwerment and human

rights.

Community Based Dialogue

As part of the Commission’s thrust towards a deeper and more meaningful

engagement with communities, Community-Based Dialogues were conducted in two

separate locations in the province of Sulu. Barangay officials from the nineteen

municipalities of the province were invited to a dialogue to put into fore the human rights

issues and concerns of their respective localities and to bring those concerns to the proper

authorities.

For convenience, the nineteen municipalities were grouped into four clusters and

were met in the following dates: 1.) Jolo, Indanan, Patikul, Banguingui, and Hji.

PanglimaTahil – August 21, 2014; 2.)Maimbung, Parang and Talipao – August 22,

20143.)Siasi, Pandami, Lugus, Tapul and Pata – August 4.) Luuk, Omar, Panamao, Kalingalan

29

Caluang and Panglima Estino. The dialogue for the first cluster was held at the Sumadja

Hall, Provincial Capitol Complex, Bangkal, Patikul, Sulu. The dialogues for the second, third

and fourth clusters were held at the Matatal Multi-Purpose Covered-Court, Matatal,

Maimbung, Sulu.

Human Rights Case Management Workshop

The MAGPRO participated in the three-day training on Human Rights Case

Management Workshop at the Park Inn Hotel, Davao City. Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin

presented the current practices of the office on investigating cases and conducting legal

assistance to clients. During the said workshop, the different provincial offices agreed on

the use of standard processes in documenting, investigating and docketing human rights

violations cases and also the use of standardized forms.

Kapehan sa Ranao

The Lanao del Sur Provincial Office launched the

“KAPEHAN SA RANAO.” The kapehan was able to

exract through workshop session some HR issues in

Lanao del Sur and Marawi City which are suitable

agenda for the upcoming HR summit to be

conducted on October 23, 2014. Through Kapehan

sa Ranao, an idea of setting up Bahay Pag-Asa in

Lanao del Norte sprouted.

On-the-Spot Poster and Slogan Making Contest

To intensify human rights promotion and

to raise human rights awareness among the youth

RHRC conducted an On-the-Spot Poster and Slogan

Making Contest for High School Students in ARMM.

The contest encouraged high school students in

ARMM to showcase their artistic skills through this

contest. The emphasis was on human rights protection

and promotion, of course.

Participants expressing their thoughts

on Human Rights through art.

30

Human Rights Week

As the sole regional human rights

state agency in the ARMM, RHRC honors the

celebration of International Human Rights

Day. To spread the observance of

International Human Rights Day, RHRC

conducted a week-long celebration which

started on December 8 by hosting the

Monday assembly, followed by organizing a

play in collaboration with the U.P. Repertory

on December 9 and held a program in

collaboration with the Maharlika Sports Club,

the: Isang Bata, Isang Bola; and a Zumba Concert on December 10 - the proceeds of the

concert will give benefit to the IDPs who are still in Zamboanga City. There was also a

blood-letting activity in the morning of December 10. December 12 was the flag retreat

which ended the Human Rights Week Celebration by awarding prizes to the winners of the

contests conducted during the celebration.

Handing of the Balls ceremony with Mr. Tee of

Maharlika Sports Club and the Principals of the

Recipient Schools

RHRC Staffs promoting Human Rights Zumba Concert Participants dances for

Human Rights

31

B. Statistics, Database information systems development

Municipality Human Rights Profile (MHRP)

The MHRP is a tool developed to

provide a snapshot situation of Human Rights

situation in Autonomous Region in Muslim

Mindanao. The RHRC personnel visit

municipalities in ARMM to introduce MHRP and

gather data. As of June 2014, the RHRC has

visited a total of one hundred two (102)

municipalities including one (1) city.

The MHRP project is made possible with the support of United Nations High

Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Australian Aid (AusAid), and United Nations

Development Program (UNDP).

Lanaodel Sur Provincial Office conducted HR Advocacy in Malabang and Tubaran

simultaneous with the data gathering for the Municipality Human Rights Profiling (MHRP).

These activities were attended by the representative/s of the different sectors of the

community, LGU officials and employees of the devolved line agencies.

C. Human Resource Development

Training on DataShare

The investigators and lawyers of the RHRC attended training on Data Share,

facilitated by an information and technology consultant hired by the European Union (EU).

During the said training, the use of the Data Share system and Google Drive were taught

to the participants. It is hoped that through this training, field work will be made easier,

through the use of tablets and the proper systems.

RHRC LDSPO, LGU officials and employees of the

devolved line agencies.

32

Participation in the NCMF’s Paralegal Training Activity

The RHRC SRO participated in the

NCMF’s paralegal training activity held in Pasig

City. For the protection of minor-detainees in

SICA-2 as well as women IDPs, the BSTSRO

continues to work closely with the NP and other

partner organizations, such as the World Health

Organization (WHO) and Community

And Family Services International (CFSI).

Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism Training

Last March 14, 2014 Special Investigator Raiza Abas attended the monitoring and

reporting mechanism centered on the protection of women and children in the

autonomous region. The activity facilitates the process of reporting special cases and how

civil society organizations and nongovernment organization workers and other

humanitarian volunteer help in resolving the said incidences in their respective areas.

Capacity Building for RHRC-LDSPO work force:

Supervisory Development Course

(SDC)-Track I, March 17-21, 2014 at Davao

City; and Training session on Universal

Periodic Report writing, held RHRC Regional

Office, ORG CoMagPROund, Cotabato City.

Training on Birth Registration Magna Carta on Children

An Orientation and Training on Birth Registration conducted by the Community

and Family International (CFSI) cited in the Magna Carta on Children was attended by the

RHRC GAD Focal Point Raiza Abas. The right of a child to have a name and identity is one

of the salient points behind the conduct of this activity.

SRO Staff meet with representatives from WHO and CSFI

at the BaSulTa SRO on March 17, 2014 to discuss the

issue of IDP women arrested in evacuation centers in

Zamboanga City.

SDC Participants

33

Mine Risk Education Training

Legal Management and Assistance Division Head Atty. Bai Sittie Saida C. Bailan,

CPA, attended the week-long training on mine risk education facilitated by FSD

International. Participants were exposed how to educate all community residents from all

walks of life on how to prevent unexploded mines in their community and the mechanism

on reporting these devices.

National Training Workshop on Results – Based Management and Effective Reporting

As a member of the protection and monitoring of the welfare of women and

children, this Office participated in a results-based management workshop facilitated by

the United Nations Women. It highlights the updating process of all cases related to

women and children.

Training on Republic Act 9344

MAGPRO Head Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin attended the training held at Manila

with civil society organizations, local and international nongovernment organization and

other humanitarian workers in the country. The meeting focused on juvenile justice and

welfare system of the Philippines.

Capacity-building sessions attended by LDSPO work force to enhance their

effeciency and competence in the service to the community in strengthening

promotion and protection of human rights:

The RHRC LDSPO attended the following capacity building trainings: Supervisory

Development Course (SDC) –track II, held at Davao City, May 05-10, 2014; Training

Workshop on CEDAW Implementation and Monitoring with a Special Session on

Trafficking,

Migration and

Women’s Human

Rights, Held at

Quezon City on

May 1-3, 2014;

Training workshop

“From Evidence to

action: Protecting

Human Rights

34

Defender and Fighting Impunity,” held at Lantaka Hotel, Zamboanga City on May 26-28,

2014.

Communications Group Strategic Communication Training

To be fully capacitated on

communications, a five-day training on

basic communication was conducted at Em

Manor Hotel for the nine members of

Communications Group. The training

covered 6 topics namely: Writing Skills

(News, Editorial, Feature and Copy

Writing); Broadcast and Documentary

Making; Audio-Video Writing; Photography;

Lay-outing and Multi-media Presentation.

Belfast delegation for Human Rights and Transitional Justice

On November 27-31, RHRC sent a delegation to Belfast, Northern Ireland for an

exposure trip on human rights and transitional justice. The delegation was hosted by the

Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC). Chairperson Loretta Ann Rosales and

Commissioner Jose Manuel Mamauag of the Commission on Human Rights of the

Philippines joined the delegation, as well as a junior staff from the British Foreign

Commonwealth Office (FCO) in Manila. In this week-long visit, the RHRC met with various

agencies in Northern Ireland that are instrumental in human rights protection and

promotion, as well agencies that work with communities that still bear the legacy of the

Troubles. These agencies are: The Probation Board of Northern Ireland, the Community

Relations Council, WAVE Trauma Center (of which one of the NIHRC Commissioners is the

Director), Equality Commission, Northern Ireland Assembly, Ombudsman, and Police

Ombudsman. The visit provided an opportunity for RHRC Commissioners and senior staff

to learn about good practices of an

NHRI in a politically autonomous area.

Mr Ray Millan of the Northern Ireland

Community Relations Council shares his

experience of the troubles and the work his

office has been doing after the signing of

the Good Friday Agreement. On the wall

are pictures of divided communities in

various areas in Northern Ireland

The participants of the Communications Group

Strategic Communication Training

35

South- South Exchange (Exposure to Indonesia)

The Gender Project of the Regional Human Rights Commission assisted by the

United Nations Development Program has embarked on an exposure trip to Indonesia on

December 27-29, 2014. The 3 day visit to Indonesia was conducted primarily to observe

the best practices of the CSO women in Indonesia in addressing issues and concerns on

gender. It was participated by the Regional Human Rights Commission (RHRC), Regional

Commission of Bangsamoro Women (RCBW), Noorus Salam Central Mindanao, Lanao Del

Sur People’s Council (LDSPC), Social Services for Grassroots and Development (SSGRCD),

and Moro Women Development and Cultural Center (MWDECC). AMAN Indonesia is the

host organization which was instrumental to RHRC’s success in this endeavour. The three

(3) day exposure trip comprised of the delegation’s visit to the Komisi Nasional Hak Asasi

Manusia (Commission on Human Rights), Komisi Perempuan (Women’s Commission),

Yayasan Prasasti Perdamaian (YPP), Perempuan Institut (Women’sInstitute), Fatayyat Nu and

PEKKA.

The delegates with the staff of PEKKA, a CSO women in Indonesia where they

train women to be the head of households.

36

GENERAL ADMINSITRATIVE AND SUPPORT FUNCTIONS

Security Risk Management Training

All HRMC and BST-SRO personnel, including security guards, attended a Security

Risk Management Training given by Human Rights Expert Shaun Kirven at the Garden

Orchid Hotel from July 30 to August 1, 2014.

Owing to the intrinsic risks attendant in the job of human rights workers and

advocates as well as the volatile nature of the security situation in the Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-

Tawi sub-region, there is the urgent need to equip the HRMC and BST-SRO personnel with

relevant skills on the management of security risks.

Establishment and Setting-Up of Human Rights Monitoring Centers: Initial Steps

Towards the end of the month, the BSTSRO started its search for possible office

spaces for the Human Rights Monitoring Centers (HRMCs) for Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi

as part of the EU-UNDP Project titled, “Strengthening Institutions for Peace and Human

Rights (SIPHR).’

Launch of the HRMCs

The HRMCs for the Island-Provinces

of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi were

launched on May 26, 27 and 29, 2014,

respectively. The establishment of the

HRMCs is envisioned to ensure a closer and

more meaningful engagement between the

RHRC and human rights stakeholders. The

HRMCs will also allow the RHRC to address

human rights violations more quickly.

A day after its launching, the Sulu HRMC received its first complaint of alleged

HRVs: a group of families and individuals in the Municipality of Tongkil are allegedly

victims of involuntary servitude, forced labor, physical maltreatment and a form of illegal

detention.

Stakeholders from different sectors attend the

launch of the Human Rights Monitoring Center in

Isabela City, Basilan on May 26, 2014.

37

Stakeholders from different sectors in Sulu attend

the launch of the Human Rights Monitoring

Center in Jolo, Sulu on May 27, 2014.

Team Building and Year-end Assessment

The RHRC has achieved

considerable progress in performing its

mandate, even exceeding its targets for

2014 just halfway through the year. As

the year is near its end, it is necessary

for an assessment to be conducted, in

order to discuss the lessons learned and

the ways forward, in preparation for

2015.

The RHRC started with just five (5) personnel. It now has a total staff of 79,

including project personnel. Within this year alone, the manpower increased by 53% and as

such, there is a need to assess whether or not each employees is contributing effectively

and efficiently to the mandates of the institution. Strengthening of interpersonal

relationships is also necessary at this point, given the large number of personnel spread

across the four (4) main RHRC offices and the three (3) human rights monitoring centers.

Conducting such activity aims to gauge the

performance of the RHRC for 2014, taking

into considerations its mandates and targets,

determine if the RHRC is being strategic in

the implementation of its programs and

projects, consolidate the assessment that the

RHRC provincial offices and divisions have already conducted in preparation to this activity,

audit the RHRC’s Management, Personnel and Environment by conducting a SWOT analysis

Stakeholders from different sectors in Tawi-Tawi

attend the launch of the Human Rights Monitoring

Center in Bonggao, Tawi-Tawi on May 29, 2014.

38

in preparation for next year’s Strategic Planning, discuss and address the best and

unfavourable practices of the provincial offices and divisions, share the learnings of the

personnel who were given trainings, capacity building and exposure trip here in the

Philippines and abroad and to enhance interpersonal relationships within the institution.

39

Key Result Area No. 1

TO INSTITUTIONALIZE HUMAN RIGHTS IN THE

BANGSAMORO AND OTHER GOVERNMENT BODIES

OPERATING IN THE REGION

Human Rights Summit4

The Regional Human Rights Commission in the Autonomous Region in Mindanao

(RHRC-ARMM) held a Human Rights Summit at the Garden Orchids Hotel on May 6, 2014.

At the Summit, the RHRC introduced a new peace and human rights project, supported by

the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU), to key

stakeholders from ARMM, particularly Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi (BASULTA).

The project, entitled

“Supporting the Transition to

Bangsamoro”, aims to

strengthen institutions for

peace and human rights in the

ARMM. This initiative will

contribute to the establishment

of three Human Rights

Monitoring Centres in each of

the BASULTA provinces,

serving as platforms for the quick response to, as well as monitoring and promotion of,

human rights in one of the most iMagPROverished and conflict-ravaged regions in the

Philippines.

RHRC Chairperson Algamar Latiph stated that the project was timely, as there was

great need to localize human rights initiatives: “We have to make human rights closer to

the people and closer to the community. We have to engage the people at the very

grassroots. We have to make the rule of law alive.” Atty. Latiph said that the Summit was

4 RHRC, UNDP, and EU Holds Human Righst Summit for ARMM <visited January 25, 2015

http://www.ph.undp.org/content/philippines/en/home/presscenter/pressreleases/2014/05/07/rhrc-undp-and-eu-holds-human-rights-summit-for-armm/>

LGU Officials, members of CSOs and the Security Sector from Basilan,

Sulu and Tawi-Tawi attend the Human Rights Summit at Garden

Orchid Hotel in Zamboanga City on May 06, 2014.

40

an opportunity to share their experiences and priority issues so that “their insight,

experiences, and voices will be recorded and from these RHRC can properly identify

activities and programs” that will be launched from the newly established Human Rights

Monitoring Centers.

Speaking on behalf of the EU Ambassador Guy Ledoux, EU Programme Manager

Edoardo Manfredini reiterated the iMagPROrtance of civil society, indicating that it “has

always been a crucial sector in the promotion of human rights because through its

engagement with government and security forces, it compels the latter to be transparent

and accountable.” Mr. Manfredini highlighted the key role that women were to play for

peace and stability in the Bangsamoro, and stressed that future programs need to be

developed to ensure women participation in the peace and development process.

UNDP Country Director Maurice Dewulf pointed out that “development is not there

– and cannot be there - when there is no peace and when human rights are stepped

upon.” Mr. Dewulf therefore urged RHRC, as well as the Commission on Human Rights

(CHR), to “ensure thereby that the development, peace and human rights nexus be

continuously kept at the forefront of your iMagPROrtant work and advocacy.”

It is in respect to this nexus that CHR Chairperson Etta Rosales lauded the project’s

initiatives, for “without human rights integrated into local governance, it will be so difficult

to bring about an enduring peace that will also bring about the right to development.” The

conference was attended by 150 participants, including human rights defenders and

promoters from the Department of Interior and Local Government, Armed Forces of the

Philippines, Philippine National Police, and Bangsamoro Human Rights Network. The

participants summarized the main issues which they wanted the project to address, and

signed a Declaration of Commitment, symbolizing their willingness to support the project’s

objective to build peace, human rights, and development for the new Bangsamoro.

41

Educating Security Sector on Human Rights

Training: Miranda Doctrine, Torture Law, Extra-Judicial Killing and Enforced Disappearance

On January 7, 2014, the RHRC

conducted a lecture on Miranda

Doctrine, Torture Law and Law against

Enforced Disappearance at the PRO-

ARMM in the Municipality of Parang,

Maguindanao. It was participated by the

Maguindanao Provincial Office Police

Non-Commissioned Officers of the

Philippine National Police—PRO ARMM.

The RHRC lecture team was

coMagPROsed of the Head of Legal and Investigation Division Atty. Bai Sittie Saida Bailan

together with Special Investigators Raiza Abas and Archad Ayao.

Training: Human Trafficking, Violence Against Women and Children, Extra-Judicial Killing and

Enforced

Disappearance

The MAGPRO conducted an orientation for 40 policemen assigned in ARMM

regarding the human rights issues such as human trafficking, EJK, enforced disappearance

and VAWC last March 19, 2014. Students were informed and educated regarding the

concepts of human rights and HR investigation process. Information, Education and

Campaign materials were distributed among the participants and given to PC/SUPT Noel

Delos Reyes.

Training: Anti-Torture law, Extra-Judicial Killing Enforced Disappearance, International

Humanitarian Law, and Basic Human Rights

Maguindanao Provincial Team catered to 165 members of the Maguindanao Police

Provincial Office and 45th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army for Human Rights Training and

Advocacy.

The Participants

42

The participants were educated on the concepts of human rights such as anti-

torture law, enforced disappearance, international humanitarian law, arrest and seizure,

basic human rights and the Commission’s mandates and functions. Information, Education

and Campaign materials were distributed among the participants.

This Office emphasized the obligations of the security sectors in promoting,

protecting and fulfillment of human rights.

Lecture: PNP-PRO-ARMM on Anti-Torture Law and Basic Human Rights

Pursuant to Sec. 24 and Sec 25 of Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act No. 288, this

Office is mandated to conduct advocacy, training and capacity building in relation to

human rights principles among the stakeholders in the autonomous region.

This Office educated 88 male police enforcers and 15 female enforcers of the PNP-

PRO ARMM who are enrolled in the Modified Philippine National Police Special Counter-

insurgency Operations Unit Training Class 41-2014-ARMM “MABITAG.”

The team had distributed information, education and campaign materials such as

key chains, posters and brochures to promote RHRC. Police enforcers were given a case

study in relation to Republic Act 9745 or otherwise known as Anti-Torture Act of 2009 and

Republic Act 7438 or otherwise known as Rights of Arrested persons focused on its

implications in human rights perspective.

During the plenary discussion, the team learned that police officers were concerned

on incidences such as rallies and assemblies that are inciting the police officers to commit

alleged human rights violations. Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin said that necessary means to

prevent harmful actions from the civilian populace. He said that it is the utmost care from

the police enforcers that should prevail in these circumstances.

Engaging ARMM HEART

The Commission’s Deputy Executive Director designate, Atty. Adjuria K. Kansi

shared her input and knowledge on United Nations Guiding Principles on Internal

Displacement and International Humanitarian Law to the government officials of ARMM

held at Davao City last March 26-27, 2014.

43

Participating in Regional Law Enforcement and Coordinating Council

The Regional Law Enforcement and Coordinating Council (RLECC) coMagPROsed of

Multi-National and Local Line and State Agencies of the government that have in regard

and functions of law enforcement to which the RHRC is a regular member.

Last April 24, 2014, one of the regular meetings of RLECC was held at Crystal Inn,

Tibanga, Iligan City and was presided by the PNP Regional Director, SSupt. Delos Reyes of

PRO-ARMM.

The meeting was fully attended by the regular members of the council. The agenda

tackled during the Quorum were: Review of the previous Minutes of the Meeting,

Presentations of mandates and functions of some member agencies and the update on

current issues in the ARMM.

Before the meeting was adjourned, the body had resolved and approved the

creation of the Sub-committee on Transportation to be Headed by the LTFRB and then set

the scheduled of the next meeting on May 15, 2014 at Alnor Function Hall, Alnor Complex,

Cotabato City.

One on one interview

The Lanao del Sur Provincial Office conducted a one-on-one interview with PSupt.

Abner Santos, City Chief of Police in Marawi City on July 26, 2014 regarding his policies to

prevent his men from committing abuses in executing search and arrest warrant and the

PNP’s procedures in handling criminals. During the conversations, updates on peace and

order situation in the city were also tackled, particularly the issues on the existence of the

kidnapping for ransom groups and the shabu industry in Marawi City.

44

Key Result Area 2.

TO INCORPORATE HUMAN RIGHTS IN GOVERNANCE

AND DEVELOPMENT IN LGUS.

Focus Group Discussion on Basic Human Rights Issues

The RHRC Lanao del Sur

Provincial Office (LDSPO) conducted a

Focus Group Discussion (FGD) at

Piagapo in partnership with the CFSI to

discuss issues and concerns related to

the improvement of the human rights

situation in the area. The participants

came from different community

sectors. NGOs and LGU officials gave

their commitment to collaborate and

work together in addressing identified HR issues.

Engaging the LGU Officials of the Municipality of Bacolod-Kalawi

LDSPO met with the LGU Officials of the Municipality of Bacolod, Kalawi last

August 04, 2014, and discussed the human rights situation in the community and the

commitment of support between the RHRC and the municipal government for HR

promotion and prevention of HRVs. At the end of the meeting an agreement was made

that is the LGU and Academe will sit together to plan for the realization of their output.

Participated in Sulu Provincial Peace and Order Council

In Sulu, the SRO staff attended the Province’s Provincial Peace and Order Council

Meeting.

The participants of FGD on Basic Human Rights Issues

45

Establishing and Strengthening Partnerships

In Sulu, courtesy visits to LGU Offices and NGOs were made in order to improve on

the existing partnerships in the interest of human rights. Field visits to MNLF communities

were also conducted to inform the relatives of the detainees about updates in the judicial

process.

Consultation with LGUs of Kabuntalan and Buldon

This Office continuously advocates the promotion of human rights thru one of its

major projects the Municipality Human Rights Profiling. Field Monitor Edna Pandi discussed

the Municipal Human Rights Profile, its purpose and iMagPROrtance to the local chief

executives and officials of Buldon and Kabuntalan (Tumbao) municipalities.

Participated in the Basilan Crisis Management Committee

Basilan HRMC attended a meeting with the Crisis Management Committee, being

conducted on a monthly basis by Nagdilaab Foundation Inc. at Isabela City, Basilan. The

said meeting was coMagPROsed of several ARMM agencies based in the Province of

Basilan. It was aimed at developing an effective response to any crisis as well as to

provide sufficient assistance to those affected.

Exploratory Meetings with partner INGOs UNHCR, ILO, government agencies

DSWD, SACC, Jolo Municipal government and Civil Society Organizations

From July 16 to 17, 2014, Sulu HRMC engaged with delegates from the United

Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, International Labor Organization, Department of

Social Welfare and Development, Sulu Area Coordinating Center, Jolo Municipal

government and various Sulu-based Civil Society Organizations in a series of exploratory

meetings in order to gain insights on the peculiar issues and concerns in the province

particularly in the fields of human rights, internal displacement, labor woes and security

situation, among others.

46

Executive Meeting with ARMM Sulu Convergence Office and ARMM line

agencies

Sulu HRMC Special Investigator attended an Executive Meeting of all provincial line

agencies called for by the ARMM Convergence Office focal person Irene Tillah at the

ARMM-Regional Convergence Office on July 22, 2014. The agenda of the meeting includes

special programs of the Regional Convergence Office, preparation for the Sub-Cabinet

meeting of provincial heads last July 31, 2014, schedule of monthly meetings, and other

matters.

Engaging the LGUs to Establish Maguindanao Provincial Human Rights Action

Center

One of the long-term goals of the RHRC is the creation of the Provincial Human

Rights Action Center (PHRAC) in each province. Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin, the Head of

the RHRC MAGPRO, suggested an alternative plan while waiting for the creation of PHRAC.

As there is a pending bill before the Maguindanao Sangguniang Panlalawigan on the

creation of an office for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in the province, Atty. Badrudin

suggests that the proposed office for PWD also function as the Human Rights Desk/Corner.

For this purpose, the RHRC MAGPRO is in constant coordination with Board Member Atty.

Abubakar Katambak. The relevant bill is already in its second reading.

47

Key Result Area No. 3

TO PROTECT WOMEN, CHILDREN AND PERSONS WITH SPECIAL CONCERNS

RHRC Investigated Rape Case in Barangay Awang

RHRC through Gender and Development (GAD) and Violence Against Women and

Children (VAWC) Focal Point Special Investigator II Raiza Abas of MAGPRO initiated the

monitoring and information gathering in relation to the alleged rape case involving minors

and their coach who are residents of Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat. SI Abas has

secured pertinent documents, such as the police blotter and affidavits of the victims

against the respondent. MAGPRO learned that the respondent has already fled and

authorities are looking for him.

Child Protection Rapid Assessment, CPWG Monthly Meeting, Country Task Force on

Monitoring and Reporting. On March 3, 10 to 12, 19 and 28, 2014, as a member of the

CPWG – Mindanao Cluster, RHRC attended the monthly meeting highlighting issues

regarding the protection of children in the province.

RHRC Participated in Indigenous Peoples’ Women Forum

Uniting all the stakeholders in the autonomous region about strong foundation of

human rights knowledge, the MAGPRO joined the Mindanao Tri-People Women Resource

Center, a local nongovernment organization based in Cotabato City in its conduct of the

Indigenous People’s Women Forum last March 25, 2014. Special Investigator Archad Ayao

presented the Commission’s powers and functions alongside with the topic on recent

situation of the Indigenous Peoples in the province and ARMM, in general discussed by

Special Investigator Raiza Abas. Atty. Abdulnasser Badrudin answered some of the legal

queries of the participants specifically on the customary law, IPRA and on marriage among

them.

Engaging Special Child Protection Working Group

With other civil society organizations, non-government organizations and local

government units, this Office participated in the special meeting on Child Protection

Working Group - Mindanao Cluster last February 2, 2014.The heightened tension between

the government forces and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was the primary

issue.

48

Protecting Children: RHRC Actively Participated in Child Protection Working

Protection and Child Protection Rapid Assessment

On February 13 and 14, 2014, the RHRC attended a CPWG – Mindanao Cluster

meeting. Being a member of said cluster,theRHRC regularly attends its monthly meetings,

wherein issues regarding the protection of children are discussed

Educating ARMM on Child Rights

Atty. Adjuria K. Kansi delivered her inputs regarding the situation of children in

armed conflict in the autonomous region to the humanitarian workers based in

Maguindanao and Cotabato City. She highlighted the collaborative efforts of all

stakeholders in eliminating human rights abuses during local war incidences. The

participants were informed and educated with the trends of human rights abuses

experienced by children in the region.

Orientating CSOs on ARMM Referral System for Child Rights

On May 3, 2014, the Community and Family Services International (CFSI) held a

one day orientation on Magna Carta for Children in ARMM and Referral pathway for Civil

Society Organizations, Non-government Organizations, line-agencies and other

government agencies on May 2, 2014. The MAGPRO participated in the said activity.

The MAGPRO explained the RHRC operational system in handling alleged human

rights violations particularly women and children HR cases and its referral pathway thru its

Bangsamoro Human Rights Network.

Engaging the Community: Grassroots Forum for Women and the Youth

On September 26, 2014,

fifty-nine women leaders from

different socio-political

backgrounds as well as youth

leaders from various schools and

colleges in the province of Sulu

converged at the Sumadja Hall at

the Sulu Provincial Capitol

Complex in Bangkal, Patikul, Sulu

to participate in a whole day

grassroots women forum. Through

The active participants of grassroots forum for women and youth

49

the forum the most pressing issues and concerns facing women and the youth were

identified and the participants presented possible solutions.

Participants came from various backgrounds: barangay local government leaders,

government employees, madrassa teachers, members and former combatants of

recognized liberation fronts, members of civil society organizations, young professionals,

and students.

Participating in Joint CPWG-SGBV Cluster

Being one of the active members of the CPWG and SGBV Clusters, RHRC through

its focal point, Ms.Raiza Abas, was able to participate in the 3rd quarter joint cluster

meeting held at the BRAC Office, Cotabato City. The agenda of the said meeting include

GBV/ Child Protection/Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism Issues, Responses and

Updates and October-December 2014 Action Plan.

Educating VAW Center Community Facilitators’ on VAWC

The Magungaya Mindanao Inc., with the support of the United Nations Fund for

Population conducteda four-day training at the Estosan Garden Hotel to the community

facilitators who will be manning the Women/VAW Centers in the Municipalities of South

Upi, DatuPiang and Mamasapano. SI Raiza Abas delivered a lecture on Republic Act 9262

otherwise known as Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act. On the other

hand, a discussion on Republic Act 8353 or the Anti-Rape Act was also facilitated by SI

Archad Ayao.

Consultative Meeting in the Formulation of the Maguindanao Women and

Children Peace Center Manual of Operation by the PLGU of Maguindanao

SI Raiza Abas attended the consultative meeting conducted by the Provincial Local

Government of Maguindanao which aimed to contribute in attaining a more gender and

child-responsive manual about the operation and will also guide in maintaining the

purposes of the center.

Interview with the CPWG National Consultant

SSI Abdillah Alik and Raiza Abas were interviewed by the Child Protection Working

Group National Consultant from UNICEF to identify issues and good practices of the

Central Mindanao CPWG during their four-year operation. RHRC, being a new member of

the group, has participated in almost all of the activities of the cluster.

50

Key Result Area No. 4

TO PROTECT INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS, MIGRANTS AND STATELESS PERSON

IN THE BANGSAMORO.

Skirmishes in Barangay Muslim, Guindulungan, Maguindanao

On January 8, 2014 skirmishes in Guindulungan Municipality in the province of

Maguindanao transpired. Based on these sources, the RHRC Maguindanao Provincial Office

(MAGPRO) learned that there were displaced families who took refuge with their relatives

in the adjacent barangays. On January 19, 2014, tensions between the quarrying parties

heightened which resulted to renewed skirmishes. Community residents conveyed the

information that affected residents did not receive any support, either financial or material,

from concerned and appropriate line agencies. The MAGPRO immediately formed a team

to monitor the incident and sent letters to concerned agencies to facilitate the delivery of

basic services for the displaced families. Approximately 250 families or 1250 individuals

benefited from the monitoring and assistance.

IDP protection and monitoring in Basilan, Sulu and Zamboanga City

Protection and monitoring

activities of IDPs were conducted in

Basilan, Sulu and Zamboanga City in

close coordination with the United

Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

(UNHCR) and the Protection Cluster, in

relation to the September 2013

Zamboanga Siege. Additionally, a series

of Kids Fun Day programs was organized

to boost psycho-social support of children

of IDPs.

Special Investigator YouseffKamlian monitors the displacement of residents brought about by “Big Waves” which hit the Municipality of Jolo, Sulu,from 11 to 15 of January, 2014; in Jolo, Sulu on January 25, 2014.

51

UNHCR Mindanao Head, Mr. Peter Deck, with RHRC-UNHCR Special Investigator KishraDawabi, interview the camp managers during the ocular visit at Rio Hondo Transitional Site on January 31, 2014.

RHRC-UNHCR Special Investigator KishraDawabi with UNHCR Protection Officer RacmahAbdula and UNHCR Mindanao Head Peter Deck interact with the IDPs during the ocular visit at the Talon-Talon Evacuation Center on January 31, 2014.

Children line up for the toy distribution

during the Kids Fun Day organized by the

RHRC BaSulTa SRO at the Zamboanga East-

West Central School, one of the evacuation

centers occupied by the Zamboanga Siege

IDPs, on January 2, 2014.

52

RHRC BaSulTa Team attends the Protection Cluster Meeting on Zamboanga Siege IDP

issues and concerns with partner agencies at the DSWD Regional Office IX, Zamboanga

City on January 21, 2014.

Evacuee-Children of detained Legal Aid

Program clients receive toys from RHRC Staff

at the BaSulTa SRO on January 16, 2014.

53

Expanded HEART Meeting

On February 06, 2014, Chairperson Atty. Algamar A. Latiph, together with Special

Investigator Raiza Abas, attended the regular ARMM HEART meeting to discuss the recent

skirmishes in Maguindanao between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and BIFF. Atty.

Latiph emphasized the worst impact of using unnecessary force in serving a single warrant

of arrest to lawless elements in the area. He questioned the army’s operations where it

displaced thousands of families in five municipalities such as Datu Piang, Datu Saudi

Ampatuan, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Mamasapano, Rajah Buayan and Shariff Aguak. This

Office recorded numerous incidences of displacements on the said areas.

UNGPID Training

RHRC Deputy Executive Director designate, Atty. Adjuria K. Kansi, shared her

knowledge on the United Nations Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement (UNGPID)

on March 13, 2014 to civil society organizations, nongovernment organizations and

community leaders held at the CFSI Training Center.

IDP Protection and Monitoring

Continuous Monitoring of the Entry of Deportees from Sabah In Tawi-Tawi, the

BSTRO continue its monitoring of the entry of deportees from Sabah.

Monitoring of IDPs as a Result of a Firefight in Barangay Buayan, DatuPiang

On April 24, 2014, the MAGPRO secured the initial report of PNP-Datu Piang

during the site validation on April 24, 2014. PNP- Datu Piang recorded that on April 22,

2014 at around 12:25 PM, Commander Kasim and Salam Paglas exchanged fires in

Barangay Balanaken and on the next day, April 23, five civilians were wounded due to the

continued armed clash. Authorities’ initial investigation revealed that splinters from M079

grenade launcher was the cause of their injuries. Aside from the injuries, the roof of the

fish landing port located in Barangay Buayan was also damaged.

54

The Regional Human Rights

Commission, Autonomous Region in Muslim

Mindanao in partnership with the United

Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and

The European Union - Strengthening

Institution for Peace and Human Rights Project

under the United Nations Development

Programme joined forces in observing the

World Refugee Day through conducting a

series of activities last June 19 and 21, 2014.

The first activity was the Launching of World Refugee Day last June 19 (Thursday),

at Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex. With this year’s theme, in Mindanao context: “One

Family Torn Apart by Conflict is Too Many”, different ARMM line agencies and partners,

including security sector attended the said event to give support.

World Refugee Day in DatuPiang

In partnership with the United

Nations High Commissioner for

Refugees and The European Union -

Strengthening Institution for Peace and

Human Rights Project under the

United Nations Development

Programme, the RHRC conducted the

second of a series activity to

commemorate World Refugee Day. This

was conducted in Datu Piang,

Maguindanao. Lectures on Basic Human

Rights and UNGPID were delivered. Aside from the conduct of lectures, hygiene kits and

school supplies were given to the 70 identified families (approximately 251 Internally

Displaced Persons).

World Refugee Day Launching

Participants of the WRD sympathizes with IDPs all

over the World

The beneficiaries of the second of a series activity to

commemorate WRD

55

World Refugee Day in Shariff Aguak

In partnership with the United

Nations High Commissioner for

Refugees and The European Union -

Strengthening Institution for Peace and

Human Rights Project under the

United Nations Development

Programme the feeding program

conducted in Shariff Aguak,

Maguindanao was a success. This is

the third of a series activity to commemorate World Refugee Day. Lectures on Basic

Human Rights were delivered. Recipient of this activity are 80 orphan girls of Madrasah

Markaz Salahuddin.

Monitoring on the displacement in Datu Salibo municipality

On July 21, 2014 early Monday, clashes

erupted between the BIFF and AFP. Nine

civilians were wounded in subsequent artillery

fire by the military on positions of the BIFF. All

the wounded civilians were residence of

Barangay PenditenDatuSalibo. The Emergency

Action and Response Team (HEART), with the

RHRC, brought the five wounded civilians to the

Cotabato Regional and Medical Center to

undergo medication. On July 22, 2014, the

ARMM Heart and RHRC team accompanied

the wounded in going to the Barangay Pagatin, DatuSalibo.

The Regional Governor gave cash assistance to wounded civilians before the team

went to DatuSalibo with them. The Team verified that there were 5 families IDPs in Pagatin,

DatuSalibo. The IDPs were from Brgy. Pendatin,DatuSalibo. The wounded civilians during

the skirmishes between the BIFF and AFP were afraid to go back in Pagatin, DatuSalibo,

therefore the RHRC team together with the ARMM Heart went with them for security

purpose. There were reported IDPs in Brgy. Pagatin, DatuSalibo caused by the skirmishes

between the AFP and BIFF.

The beneficiaries of the third of a series activity to

commemorate WRD

Monitoring on the displacement in

ShariffSaydona Mustapha

56

The RHRC team, together with the

ARMM HEART, verified the report that there

were IDPs in Bakat, ShariffSaydona. The team

arrived late because it secured clearance in the

AFP before it went to the area. According to a

Barangay Kagawad, there were approximately

401 displaced families from Gantaand, 36

displaced from Pandi, ShariffSaydona who

stayed at ARMM Social fund building. Some

of the IDPs stayed in the house of the said

Barangay kagawad, while the others were homebased. The ARMM heart also verified that

there were 261 displaced families in Bagumbong,Mamasapano.The IDPs were from

Barangay Inaladan, Mamasapano. As of the moment, only IDPs from Barangay

Penditenhave not returned to their habitual residence because of fear that there will be an

encounter again.

IDP Protection and Monitoring

IDP protection monitoring is in progress in Sulu due to armed conflict in the

Municipality of Pata and Kalingalan Caluang.

Monitoring on the displacement in Shariff Saydona Mustapha

The MagPro team verified and assisted the situation of IDPs in Brgy. Bakat, Shariff

Saydona. The field monitor met the LGU Datu Piang for updating their MHRP. The

displaced families need immediate assistance from the Local government and other line

agencies. Issues on health were raised by the displaced families in Barangay Bakat, Shariff

Saydona, some children suffered from diarrhea, fever, and cough. No medical intervention

given to them and no health center in the area. No food assistance and other relief goods

were received. No evacuation center or building in the area that serve as shelter for the

other families, therefore they have to build tent as their temporary shelter and they

suffered during heavy rain. Classes were suspended at Barangay Ganta, Shariff Saydona. To

address this concern the Commission issued an IDPAR.

IDPS at the make-shift evacuation area

57

Monitoring in Barangay Buayan, Datu Piang

During a series of fire fight and mortar shelling took place in the different

municipalities in Maguindanao, the Maguindanao Provincial Office received news about a

destruction of property owned by a civilian last August 12, 2014. It took place in Brgy.

Buayan, Datu Piang which resulted to the injury of one minor.

The MagPro Team went to conduct an ocular inspection in the site of the incident

in Brgy. Buayan, Datu Piang. Abedin Mulod, 49 years old, showed the team how a mortar

shattered his house and injured son. The residents in the area said that allegedly the

mortar came from Brgy. Nabalawag, Midsayap. There was not enough evidence and other

sources to support such information. Datu Piang Municipal Police Station said they are on

the process of investigating the case and doesn’t have enough information where the

mortar came from. However, the team investigated and gathered updates from the reports

of the PNP. The reports stated that the family received assistance from the LGU of Datu

Piang. The details said assistance is not yet clear and the team will get more information

about it. The primary concern is on the safety and security of the residents especially that

one civilian was injured. It is noteworthy that the said civilian is a minor. The information

gathered by the team shows that the house is owned by a civilian. The team aims to

emphasize the protection of civilian property during armed conflict.

Key Result Area No. 5

TO INCORPORATE HUMAN RIGHTS IN THE PEACE PROCESS.

Kapehan sa RHRC

"Kapehan sa RHRC" serves as a venue for the members to enjoy a cup of coffee

while discussing and sharing insights on the relevant issues and concerns in the ARMM. Its

first kick-off was held last February 13, 2014 with the Bangsamoro Human Rights Network

(BHRN).

It was also in February when the

RHRC started conducting the monthly

“Kapehan sa RHRC.” One particularly

significant Kapehan was conducted on

February 28, 2014, with UN Women

Deputy Regional Director Ramanathan

Balakrishnan as the resource person. The

discussion revolved around updates on

The participants in the Kapehan as facilitatede by Aiza

Casimra-Salakadang

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CEDAW implementation, the Rule of Law and Transitional Justice. DSWD ARMM, Muslim

Youth Organization, United Youth for Peace and Development MMI, RLA, Mindanao Tri-

People Women Resources Center Inc. DAF ARMM Moro Women Development and Cultural

Center, Inc. are the participants during the said activity.

As of December 2014, RHRC has held seven (8)“Kapehan sa RHRC” sessions.

Consultation on Transitional Justice

Atty. Badrudin attended the consultative meeting with stakeholders of Central

Mindanao regarding the transitional justice mechanisms to be implemented in the

Bangsamoro. This Office is in support to maximize all necessary means in achieving a

human rights violations- free area.

Memorandum Of Agreement Between HRVCB and RHRC

The Regional Human Rights Commission signed a memorandum of agreement with

the HRVCB. As part of the agreement, claims board will hire and station a claims desk

officer in the RHRC office in Cotabato City.

The signing of the memorandum of agreement between HRVCB and RHRC.

Chairpersons Lina Castillo-Sarmiento and Atty. Algamar A. Latiph respectively