Davao Oriental: Troops from the 28th Infantry (KAMAGONG) Battalion under the leadership of LTC ALEXANDER D BANATAO apprehended and rescued a child in armed conflict following a skirmish against an undetermined number of NPA last 09 May at Sitio Tawas, Brgy Maragatas, Lupon, DOR. Alyas “Jack”, whose true name was hidden on purpose, 17 years of age, and a resident of Purok 1-A, Brgy Cabay-angan, Dujali, Davao del Norte was spared from imminent death brought about by the exposure to armed conflict caused by the recruitment of NPA in the communities.
In an interview, alyas “Jack” revealed that he was forcibly recruited by the NPA in their community despite of his young age and that the NPA would even ask his parents to hide war materials inside their house or in the vicinity. He also stated that there are three (3) other minors, ages 15-16 years old, are with him in the armed group.
Prompting on the statements of alyas “Jack”, Ltc Banatao immediately organized a recovery team composed of intel operatives of 28IB and Davao Oriental Provincial Mobile Force Company (DOPMFC) to recover said war materials at Brgy Cabay-angan, Dujali, Davao del Norte.
On 15 May 2020, troops were able to recover one (1) M4 rifle, two (2) bandoliers, five (5) magazines with live ammunitions near alyas Jack’s residence.
Ltc Banatao strongly condemns such inhumane and unlawful acts of the NPAs; exposing minors in armed conflict which endanger their life and deprive them of their liberty.
It has been noted that recruitment of minors especially in armed conflict is a gross violation on the Geneva Convention and other domestic laws in the country. More so, Republic Act 7610 of the 1987 Constitution provides “stronger deterrence and special protection against child abuse, exploitation and discrimination”. It also stipulates that “children shall not be an object of attack and shall be entitled to special respect. They shall be protected from any form of threat, assault, torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.”
Meanwhile, Kamagong Troopers, in their simplest way of showing kindness, was able to share some blessings to the victim of NPA recruitment as they bought some clothes for the rescued minor.
Said minor was then brought to the Lupon Municipal Police Station for proper filing.