53IB Pledges Reaffirmation of Commitment and Support for the IHL

The Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) kicked off the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Month Celebration and pledged it’s reaffirmation of commitment and support for the IHL during today’s flag raising ceremony held at 53IB Headquarters, Camp Major David Sabido, Poblacion, Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur.

In his message, 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera said the Battalion will continue to adhere to the principles of human rights and humanitarian law.

“The 53IB shall remain professional in carrying out its mandate of securing its area of operstions and protecting its people, in strict adherence to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.

The 53IB continues to abide by the principles of IHL. In numerous occasions, the battalion facilitated the treatment of wounded enemies, bringing of abandoned communist NPA terrorist cadavers to their families, and facilitated the burial of neutralized enemies.

This year’s IHL Month is observed and commemorated with the theme: “Upholding IHL as We Recover from the Pandemic: Bayanihan to Reduce the Suffering in Armed Conflict Toward Advancing the Gains of Peace and Reconciliation” (Pagtaguyod sa IHL habang Bumabangon Tayo mula sa Pandennya: Bayanihan upang Mapagaan ang Pagdurusa sa Armadong Labanan Tungo sa Pagsusulong ng mga Natamong Kapayapaan at Pagkakasundo)