Date of publication: November 5, 2009
Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer
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The United States will not release $2 million worth of military aid to the Philippines for this year because of the country's failure to address human rights concerns and improve its rights records, according to a lawmaker who met with State Department officials.
Bayan Muna Representative Neri Colmenares, who recently arrived from a US trip, also said the Philippines was at risk of not receiving the same amount next year, because the US House of Representatives has passed a resolution saying that $2 million worth of military aid for 2010 won't be released unless the country followed three conditions.
These are the implementation of the recommendation of United Nations special rapporteur Philip Alston on extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances; investigation and prosecution of military personal who have been credibly charged of violating human rights; and the military not having a policy of, and not engaging in, acts of intimidation or violence against members of legal organizations who advocate for human rights.
Colmenares, speaking in a forum, said that though $2 million was small, the amount was still symbolic.