Sasah Sta Rosa, chairperson of Anakbayan in Naga City, was said to have been arrested during the early hours of 2 May 2021 in Villa Obiedo in the same city on the allegations of possession of loose firearms and improvised explosive device materials.. However, there are claims that Sta Rosa’s family was forced out of their home before being presented with a search warrant. Police claims yielding a bag of guns, grenades, and red flags after the search.

Given doubts on what transpired during that operation, we urge the government to investigate such accusations. We remind the government, particularly the police, that securing a community includes guaranteeing everyone’s safety from allegations of weaponising the law and legal processes, as well as arbitrary arrests.

It is to the best interest of the government to investigate, ferret out the truth, and assure that due process and the rule of law are in order.

At the same time, we also urge the government to guarantee protected freedoms in the Constitution, including the right to organise, express dissent, free speech and expression, and demand redress for grievances for the betterment of the welfare of the people.

In this regard, CHR shall be exercising its mandate to pursue an independent investigation through CHR Region V. We shall be open to both sides. ###