AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)
MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday strongly denied reports claiming that its troops have maltreated and abused Aetas during an operation in San Marcelino, Zambales last month.
"We take exception to that sweeping statement by some quarters (Indigenous Peoples’ Rights International) who may have been fed false or fabricated information," AFP spokesperson Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a press statement.
He added that the AFP units are only deployed in indigenous peoples (IP) communities when responding to calls for help or assistance.
"The recent baseless charges against the Army personnel from 7th Infantry Division who operated in Zambales turned out to be hearsay, unfounded claims, and lies," Arevalo said.
Allegations coming from the communist terrorist groups and their allies claimed that 7th Infantry Division troops during their operation in Sitio Lumibao, Barangay Buhawen bombed, burned the homes, and fed human waste to Aetas in the community.
"Among those apprehended during the operations were Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members belonging to the same IP community who perpetrated the baseless accusations of human rights violations," Arevalo said.
He added that the alleged bombing of Aeta communities by military personnel was belied by their chieftain, Marcelo Galado, in a video statement.
"Nonetheless, should they have any complaints, we encourage them to report the same to AFP units with documents or testimonies to substantiate the allegations of abuse and we will take appropriate actions," Arevalo said.
He added that the AFP does not tolerate in its ranks transgressions of peoples’ rights.
"As a matter of fact, we are protectors of human rights especially of IPs who often fall victims to abuse and exploitation by CTG and blame the AFP for it," Arevalo said. (PNA)
