Arrested NDF advisor Family asks for his release

CEBU, Philippines -  The family of the arrested National Democratic Front consultant and alleged New People's Army leader has called for his immediate release.

 Joseph Roy Erecre, 28, the eldest son of Roy Erecre, sought the assistance of the Commission on Human Rights for his father's freedom.

 In an interview, Joseph Roy said his father's arrest was illegal because of the immunity granted to him by the government as the consultant of the NDF.

 The immunity was reportedly granted through the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees, said Joseph Roy.

 JASIG provides that all persons having safe conduct passes are guaranteed unhindered passage in all areas in the country in connection with the performance of their duties in the negotiations.

 JASIG also provides all duly accredited persons are guaranteed immunity from surveillance, harassment, search, arrest, detention, prosecution and interrogation or any other similar punitive actions.

 Joseph Roy said his father had all the necessary papers which he showed to the police and military officials but the older Erecre was reportedly still arrested in Davao on May 7.

 Joseph Roy said, a few days ago, he was able to speak with his father who told him that he was detained in a hot isolation cell. The room, he said, is not suitable for a person like his father who is suffering from diabetes.

Roy was reportedly in Davao to seek treatment when he was arrested. — (FREEMAN)