By Bernice Camille V Bauzon/Manila Times
The 21 Filipino peacekeepers recently released from captivity by Syrian rebels will remain stationed in the Golan Heights to observe peace and security there, the Department of Foreign Affairs said yesterday.
The peacekeepers have already crossed the Jordan-Israel border and entered the Philippine battalion headquarters at the UN camp in Israel.
They would have to undergo standard operating procedures before they can go back to their posts.
In a statement, the Foreign Affairs department said that Philippine Ambassador to Tel Aviv Generoso Calonge met the peacekeepers when they arrived at Camp Ziouani at
6pm (Israel time). Lt Col Nolie Anquiliano, Philippine battalion commander, and other members of the contingent also welcomed the group.
According to the statement, the peacekeepers travelled “nonstop” from the border to Camp Ziouani on the Israeli side of the Golan Heights. This is also where the Philippine contingent is based.
“Despite the uncertainties they experienced during the four-day ordeal, the peacekeepers appeared to be in high spirits and were very delighted on seeing the welcoming party,” the statement said.
The 21 Filipino peacekeepers are part of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (Undof) deployed in the Golan Heights to ensure the ceasefire agreement between the Israelis and the Syrians.
They were abducted on March 6 by Syrian rebels calling for the ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The rebels demanded the pull out of al-Assad’s forces from a village in the Golan Heights. They also accused the peacekeepers of siding with the Israelis.
It is not clear if the demands were met. But the peacekeepers were released on March 9 shortly after the UN and the European Union called for their release “without conditions.”
Besides Calonge and Anquiliano, Philippine Army Col. Cirilito Sobejana, chief of staff of the Undof, also welcomed the Filipinos. He also accompanied the peacekeepers from the Jordanian border to their home base.
Major General Iqbal Singh, force commander of the Undof based in Camp Faouar at the Syrian side of the Golan Heights, expressed his appreciation with the “unwavering support” being extended by the Philippines to the peacekeeping operations.
“You have once again demonstrated the bravery of Philippine soldiers wherever they may be posted, at home or abroad. You have defined and personified the true meaning of peacekeeping and you have made your country very proud as you continue to perform your duties and responsibilities without fear in the face of danger,” Calonge was quoted as telling the peacekeepers during the briefing.