Free the IPs from leftists; let DSWD, NCIP take care of them

I THINK it is time the national government intervened in the UCCP Haran Compound in Davao City where indigenous peoples are being held. These IPs have suffered enough through the years and the best thing we can do for them this time is free them from external influence.

Tribal leaders and leftist organizations claim these IPs left their homes because they were threatened by the military. Still, the evacuation of the IPs, if ever their fears are true, should be handled by the proper government authorities like the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, not by leftist organizations out to advance their own agenda.

There are reports that the IPs are being held in a miserable and unhealthy environment, despite the leftist organizations calling the place as a “sanctuary” from the abuses of the military. These reports should not be ignored; President Aquino should compel the local government of Davao City to mediate the release of these IPs. They do not deserve this treatment. They are a proud and free people. They should not be held as prisoners in the UCCP Haran Compound!

—PERRY R VALDEZ, [email protected]