LAWYERS LETTER TO THE EDITOR (tags)
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Davao City Chapter joins the Free Legal Assistance Group, the Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao and the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in strongly condemning the inclusion of law-abiding citizens and members of the IBP and legitimate organizations in the so-called “Order of Battle” of the 10th Infantry Division (10th ID) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. What is the basis for including them in the list? The “Order of Battle” is nothing but a hit list of people the military has identified as “enemies of the state.” It makes the military the prosecutor, judge and executioner all at the same time. It is unconstitutional and repugnant to the rule of law and the democratic processes. It is a clear indication of the military’s utter disregard for human rights. It makes those in the list vulnerable and open targets for unreasonable and abusive soldiers; not only does the “Order of Battle” endanger the lives of those who are on the list, it also undermines their families’ peace of mind and sense of security.