AFP belies harassment vs Lumad schools

May 18, 2018

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) denied on Friday the reported harassment and attacks against Lumad schools allegedly committed by the military forces in Mindanao.

“We have inquired from our units in the Eastern Mindanao Command and 10th Infantry Division. The reports categorically state that no such forcible closing of schools or burning or strafing was committed by the AFP as alleged,” Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesman said.

“The AFP helps construct schools and provide security to students and teachers. But it will not do harm our people, especially our brothers and sisters in the indigenous communities,” he added.

Arevalo also challenged those accusing the military to provide details of the alleged harassment incidents and file cases in court.

“We challenge our accusers. Provide details: which schools, where, and when were the alleged acts committed. Those are serious allegations of criminal acts. And they should file appropriate cases in court. They should not resort to deception and lies,” he said.

“Those allegations against us are preposterous and malicious and are meant to malign the reputation and discredit the AFP,” he added.

He branded the allegations as another disinformation campaign by the communist New People's Army to discredit the military to win back public support it has lost. Robina Asido/DMS