AN AID worker has decried human rights violations against Marawi residents under martial law in Mindanao, including blindfolding rescued civilians, putting a special child under interrogation, and ordering evacuees to strip naked for inspection, among others. Military willing to accept sanctionsIn reaction, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Eduardo Año said martial law was not imposed tosuppress the rights of people but to eradicate rebellion. We do not intend to violate human rights, and we welcome any investigation and will apply sanctions if there are any violations,” Año told lawmakers. Commission on Human Rights chief Chito Gascon also testified that his office had yet to receive reports of human rights violations committed under martial law in Mindanao. Gascon, however, clarified that he did not have enough information to conclude that there were no human rights violations under martial law in the south.

Source: Manila Times July 22, 2017 16:41 UTC