It is a cause for concern when representatives of the government treats the death of another Filipino as victory. Time and again, we have condemned armed conflict because, in the end, nobody really wins, especially when it leads to ruined lives and communities. However, in instances when armed atrocities are inevitable, we trust that all involved parties adhere to international humanitarian law (IHL) in limiting the effects of armed conflict.

We cannot find good reason in posing for photos with the lifelesss body of Jevilyn Cullmat, alongside seized firearms and communist flags.

We note the statement of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on his instruction to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to assist in the transport of the remains of the Jevilyn and ensure that she is “treated with dignity.”

At the same time, we continue to encourage government to genuinely respect the human rights of all—at all times, in all places—as it has claimed to do so in different domestic and international platforms. We express our sympathies to the family and loved ones left by Jevilyn. The Commission on Human Rights is set to also investigate this case. ###