The Commission on Human Rights strongly denounces the recent spate of violence and attacks allegedly done by the New People’s Army (NPA). Particularly gruesome is the killing of PFC Ariel Guinsod Maca, a member of the 36th Infantry Batallion and a Manobo, in Lanuza, Surigao del Sur on 03 October 2020. He sustained several gunshots, and bore torture marks including severely flattened face and his plucked out eyes. A facebook user named Ka Sandara Sidlakan, who identified herself as the Spokesperson of the NPA-Surigao del Sur, claimed that it was them who killed PFC Maca.

Another ambush-slay case was also reported in Lianga, Surigao del Sur on 4 October 2020. The IP Mandatory Representative to the municipal council Hawudon Jumar S. Bucales was killed by men believed to be members of the NPA. Similarly, in Pinabacdao, Samar, five persons, which include a police and two teachers were hurt in an ambush attack by alleged members of the NPA last 7 October 2020.

No ideology can justify these senseless violations on the right to life. The disproportionate and brutal manner of attacks by an armed group also violates the international humanitarian law. That these hostilities are happening in the midst of a pandemic compounds the insecurity, fear, and vulnerability that conflict-ridden communities are already experiencing.

The recurrence of violence only further imperils the people in vulnerable communities. We reiterate our plea to pursue peaceful ways to address long-standing issues for recovery and healing to begin.

CHR expresses its heartfelt condolence to the victims. CHR Region CARAGA and Region VIII shall probe these cases to ensure justice for the victims and bring the perpetrators to account. ###