Law Centers discuss Humanitarian Issues
October 12, 2007
     

Prof. Diane Desierto of the UP Institute of International Legal Studies lectures about Command Responsibility

       The Institute of International Legal Studies, University of the Philippines (UP) Law Center in cooperation with the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development conducted a seminar-workshop on International Humanitarian Law Issues in the Philippines last October 12, 2007 at Moot Court, College of Law, Silliman University.

       The discussions during the said seminar-workshop focused on extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and the Human Security Act.

       Director of Salonga Center Atty. Mikhail Lee L. Maxino said the issue on extrajudicial killings has become a major concern in the country and internationally.

       “Most recently, the Supreme Court has issued the Rule of The Writ of Amparo, which is a remedy available to any person whose right to life, liberty, and security has been violated or is threatened with violation by an unlawful act or omission of a public official or employee, or of a private individual or entity”, Maxino said.

       “With this latest development, the Salonga Center and the Institutes of International Legal Studies of UP Law Center have deemed it appropriate and urgent to conduct a seminar-workshop on international humanitarian law issues affecting the country,” Maxino added.

       According to Prof. H. Harry L. Roque, Jr., the Director of the Institute of International Legal Studies, enforced disappearances originated from UP where two students have been abducted and disappeared.

       “Although there is no law in the Philippines that punishes enforced disappearances, it is criminal under the International Law specifically under the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons,” Roque said.

       “Ultimately, the State can get away with fundamental rights only when we allow them to do so,” Roque added.

       The said seminar-workshop was attended by law students from Silliman University and Negros Oriental State University, members of the Philippine National Police, lawyers, and human rights advocates. (by Christy Ann Marie R. Cong and Shenna S. Moncada)