Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 12) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines accused communist rebels of carrying out more than 500 attacks on civilians and their properties, in a report submitted to the United Nations.
In a statement on Tuesday, the AFP said the report listed 532 “violent incidents” committed by the New People’s Army since 2010.
It was submitted on Monday to Signe Poulsen, representative to the Philippines of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Philippines Gustavo Gonzales.
Copies were also sent to Executive Director of the Presidential Human Rights Committee Undersecretary Severo Catura, and Department of Foreign Affairs Office of the United Nations and International Organizations Assistant Secretary Noralyn Jubaira-Baja.
The AFP said the data collected by its Human Rights Office was initially submitted to the Commission on Human Rights last January 7.
AFP Chief-of-Staff Gen. Gilberto Gapay said the report exposes the violence committed by the rebels.
“This is aimed at informing international human rights bodies of the CTG’s (communist terrorist group) persistent disregard of human rights and international humanitarian law by destroying civilian properties,” he said.
The military said that the number of alleged violence perpetuated by the Reds is expected to increase as it continues to inquire and tender reports on the latter’s activities.
