Wesmincom chief to teach IHL, human rights to soldiers

The Commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) himself is set to lead in teaching soldiers the importance of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

Wesmincom Spokesperson, Randolph Cabangbang, said in an interview, “Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer wants to lead the teaching of the practical application of human rights and IHL.”

According to Cabangbang, he had a meeting with General Ferrer last Wednesday and the commander revealed his plan to personally handle the lectures on both laws.

He admitted that most of the time, the soldiers are having problems in the practical application of human rights related laws.

Ferrer also tasked all his commanders to be responsible in teaching the IHL and human rights law including command responsibility.

IHL is a set of rules establishing restrictions on the use of weapons and methods of warfare, it protects people who are not or no longer participating in hostilities, it aims to protect human dignity and to limit suffering during times of war. The law requires parties to a conflict to distinguish combatants and civilians and to refrain from attacking civilians, care for the wounded and sick, ensure that the dignity of prisoners of war and civilian internees is preserved by allowing visits by ICRC delegates.

The law is protecting civilians, medical and religious military personnel, wounded, sick combatants and prisoners of war. It is also considered as one of the most powerful tools the international community has at its disposal to ensure the safety and dignity of people in times of war with the guiding principles that even in war there are limits.

The IHL is applied in two situations during international conflicts which involve two countries, and armed conflicts that take place in one country such as government against rebel forces. The IHL applies to all parties in conflict regardless of who started it.

By R.G. A A. Go


(2011-8-12/Zamboanga Today)