Cotabato City – The Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting humanitarian principles and protecting communities from local conflict, during a recent gathering with the Geneva Call.  The event, held at Camp Darapanan on Saturday, March 1, focused on enhancing the understanding of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), protection, and human rights among BIAF officers.

Senior Minister and BIAF Spokesperson Abunawas Maslamama, aka Von Al Haq, facilitated the session, which was attended by Brigade Commanders and their staff.  The event formed part of an ongoing educational initiative aimed at upholding human rights within the context of armed conflict.

 

Maslamama highlighted the importance of educating BIAF members about the Bangsamoro peace process and electoral system in preparation for the upcoming Bangsamoro Parliamentary elections scheduled for October 13 this year. He commended the Bangsamoro Multimedia Network (BMN) for facilitating a voter education campaign across six MILF camps and expressed hope for continued collaboration to enhance electoral awareness.

 

Engr. Mohajirin T. Ali, emphasized the significance of the MILF’s commitment to international law, describing it as a crucial aspect of their identity. He highlighted the protection this agreement affords to the MILF’s reputation and its role in strengthening the peace process with the Government of the Philippines, gaining global recognition.

 

“The engagement to International Law and human rights through the Geneva Call should not be forgotten as one of the strong engagements in the international community in which there was a signed document agreement between the two parties to solidify the engagement in IHL,” Ali said.

 

A Geneva Call representative highlighted their ongoing support for the MILF’s initiatives towards civilian protection and securing peaceful communities during this transition period. Their role includes educating the BIAF on the rules of engagement during conflict, ensuring adherence to international humanitarian standards and local protection norms.

 

As part of the educational program, Ustaz Mutalib Guiamad, an Islamic scholar, provided insights into the principles of engagement during war from an Islamic perspective. He illustrated how the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions emphasized the protection of civilians and animals and the rights of captives, reinforcing a model of peace rooted in Islamic teachings.