Practice Relating to Rule 44. Due Regard for the Natural Environment in Military Operations
The Report on the Practice of the Philippines states: “There are no specific rules which categorically state that the environment should be spared and protected during armed conflicts.” It refers to some information provided by non-governmental organizations, according to which, in most cases, the forest serves as a shield for civilians fleeing bombing, shelling and gun battles between combatants, resulting in damage to the area and the resources contained therein.