The Caucus of Development NGO Networks and its 12 Member Networks vow to remain steadfast in its commitments to protect human rights and democracy, promote peace, and prevent violent extremism.

In its recently concluded 27^th General Assembly held on 07 December 2018 at the Ateneo de Manila University, the network passed three resolutions that call for unity among civil society organizations to oppose militarization in Mindanao; oppose the passage of the Resolution of Both Houses No. 15 (RBH 15) and any initiatives to amend the 1987 Philippine Constitution; and undertake actions that promote peace and prevent violent extremism.

No to Martial Law

With the recent approval of the Martial Law extension in Mindanao on 12 December 2018, CODE-NGO and majority of its member networks, along with basic sectors and other civil society organizations, believe it has no constitutional basis, and is not the solution to peace and development issues in Mindanao.

The organization is deeply concerned on the issuance of Memorandum Order No. 32 which ordered the deployment of additional police and military troops to Samar, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental and Bicol purportedly to suppress lawless violence and acts of terror. The Coalition doubts the use of “lawless violence” as a basis for such order. The Philippine CSO community is also worried about the rising number of military and police abuse cases in rural and urban areas. CODE-NGO believes that vulnerable sectors, marginalized groups, Bangsamoro and indigenous peoples, and local CSO leaders are susceptible to such abuses.

Therefore, CODE-NGO continues to oppose Martial Law in any place in the Philippines. Along with various civil society organizations in Mindanao and in other parts of the country, CODE-NGO and its members firmly believe that civilian authority reigns supreme over the military. The organization urges all its 1,600 member organizations nationwide to speak out, publicly denounce the declaration of Martial Law, and strongly oppose any move for further extension of Martial Law in Mindanao. CODE-NGO and the larger CSO community will firmly stand up against militarization and continue to protect democracy and civil rights.

CODE-NGO’s 27^th General Assembly Resolution No. 27-07 FY 2017-18 affirms its opposition against further extension of Martial Law in Mindanao.

Promoting Peace in Mindanao

The Marawi Siege on 23 May 2017 exposed the increasing threat of violent extremism in Lanao provinces and other areas of Mindanao. Militants affiliated with the ISIS, including the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups, battled with Philippine government forces in a five-month-long armed conflict in Marawi City. This resulted to loss of lives, destruction of properties, and displacements of hundreds of thousands of Marawi City residents.

Researches conducted by The Asia Foundation (TAF) and other Mindanao thought leaders show that women and youth are more vulnerable to violent extremism. Enticing factors such as gain of power and prestige in the community, belonging to a select group of young Muslim heroes, adventure and romantic appeal of youthful idealism, and financial rewards also reveal why individuals join extremist groups. The increasing threat of violent extremism is present not only in Bangsamoro communities, other rural areas in Mindanao, and in certain provinces and cities in Visayas and Luzon.

In view thereof, CODE-NGO urges its 12 member networks to undertake actions that promote peace and prevent violent extremism. Member CSOs may work with religious sectors to promote interfaith dialogues and/or work with academic institutions to examine the threat of violent extremism in their respective communities. They are also enjoined to promote peace, tolerance, inclusion in governance, and respect for cultural diversity. Dialogues on drivers of violent extremism must continue.

Further, the organization calls on the Philippine government and the Duterte administration to strengthen, protect and promote transparency, accountability, and participation by civil society in governance; as we believe that doing so will address current frustrations and prevent future violent extremism.

Opposition to Charter Change

CODE-NGO is deeply alarmed with the contentious proposals of the RBH 15 that appears to undermine the supremacy of the fundamental law of the land. The organization is particularly concerned with the following proposed amendments: (1) lifting the term limits of the legislators; (2) removing anti-political dynasty, the Filipino first policy of the Constitution and the right of the citizen to participate in policy and decision-making processes; and (4) deleting provisions guaranteeing full respect for human rights and social justice.

Hence, the 27^th CODE-NGO General Assembly resolved that its members must be the frontliners in facilitating the conduct of series of public consultations on the matter. In partnership with other stakeholders, it aims to ensure comprehensive, inclusive, and transparent consultation processes on charter change issues, with the end view of generating an informed decision by the general public.

CODE-NGO’s 27^th General Assembly Resolution  No. 27-09 FY 2017 – 2018 declares opposition for Charter Change at this time.