Kieth Absalon 鈥擯HOTO FROM NATHALIE ABSALON鈥橲 FACEBOOK PAGE
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) sought justice for the victims of the landmine explosion in Masbate which resulted in the death of Far Eastern University football player Kieth Absalon and his cousin Nolven Absalon
鈥淏ecause of its persistent, indiscriminate and inhumane nature, the use, manufacture, and sale of anti-personnel land mines is banned by the 1997 Ottawa Treaty (Mine Ban Convention) of which the Republic of the Philippines is a signatory together with a vast majority of civilized nations,鈥� IBP national president Domingo Cayosa said in a statement.
鈥淲e strongly condemn the use of anti-personnel land mines, seek justice for the innocent victims, and demand full accountability and punishment for those who callously deployed the land mines,鈥� Cayosa added.
The Communist Party of the Philippines and the聽New People鈥�s Army (NPA) have taken 鈥渇ull responsibility聽for the tragedy鈥� in Masbate and declared 鈥渄eep remorse鈥� for the 鈥渦ntimely and unnecessary鈥� deaths of the victims.
鈥淣o goal or ideology can justify a blatant disregard of the laws and conscience of humanity. Even in extreme conditions of war, the principles of decency and humanity must be honored,鈥� Cayosa said.
鈥淟et us be firm and united in banishing anti-personnel landmines from the Philippines and in the world. Let us work together to uphold our laws and the principles of humanity to achieve genuine and lasting peace in our beloved country,鈥� he added.