Abstract / Excerpt:

There had been a number of studies conducted that concerns the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and their possible involvement in the recruitment, enlistment, and conscription of children below the age of 18 years old. This study was conducted in order to know the MILF Personnel's views, experiences in the recruitment of the child soldiers, and as well as the factors which influenced the child-recruits in joining the armed force. The researchers conducted a Focus Group Discussion with the selected MILF Personnel. Their responses were interpreted and analyzed through thematic method. The findings show that the MILF Personnel know that recruiting persons below the age of 18 as soldiers is prohibited because of their existing Code of Conduct. However, the respondents said they would still want to follow and serve Islam even at a young age, which defeats the purpose of protecting the recipients with the laws. They have bases for their recruitment which according to them are based on lslam. Also, as an armed group that aims for an independent state through government opposition, they would most likely prefer following the orders given by their superiors to the laws provided by the government. With regards to the factors that influenced the children recruits in joining the armed forces, 5 major factors of influence were identified: 1) Children are influenced by their families; 2) Children are influenced through religion; 3) Children are influenced by education (Madrasah); 4) Children are influenced by their desire to avenge their fallen loved ones; 5) The children themselves support the cry for independence. Hence, this study recommends that the MILF superiors revisit their internal policies on the recruitment of children and create mechanisms that would ensure its implementation. Also, the State, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development, conduct family seminars that would highlight the rights of the child.

Info

Source Institution	Ateneo de Davao University
Unit	Social Science and Education
Authors	Agbong, Cherish Anne T., Fabula, Camille Eve B., Olaivar, Rhea Mae E., Soriano, Rare Alyssa H.
Page Count	68
Place of Publication	Davao City
Original Publication Date	March 1, 2012
Tags	Child Soldiers, MILF, Moro Islamic Liberation Front

Preview