The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) raises serious concern over the disturbing increase in killings of barangay officials across the country. These incidents are particularly alarming as they appear to escalate with the approach of the 2025 local and national elections. In response, CHR, through its regional offices, has initiated motu proprio investigations and Quick Response Operations (QRO) to aid in determining the truth.
On 25 October 2024, reports confirm that Mary Ann Orillano, captain of Brgy. Mataloto, Leyte, was fatally shot multiple times. She was reportedly on her way home on a motorcycle-for-hire when she was ambushed around 4 p.m. in Brgy. Bagabao, Leyte. The motorcycle driver also sustained severe injuries in the attack.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has confirmed that Orillano’s death is the first casualty in Leyte since the filing of candidacies for the 2025 elections.
In a separate incident, Mark Adrian Barba, Barangay 6 San Juan Bautista chairperson and president of the Association of Barangay Captains in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, was shot at least 30 times while inside his car on 28 October 2024. Barba was on his way home with companions, Raffy Agraan Ulep and Lord Wayne Gian Menor, when the attack occurred. Barba was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, while Ulep and Menor were initially reported in critical condition but later succumbed to their injuries.
The perpetrators in both incidents remain unidentified, and the Commission’s investigation is ongoing to determine whether these attacks are politically motivated.
The CHR stresses that such acts of violence not only violate the right to life—the most fundamental human right—but also infringe upon the democratic right of individuals to participate in a free and peaceful electoral process. The growing number of killings targeting barangay officials has instilled fear within communities and poses a threat to local leaders committed to serving their constituents. As duty-bearers, we must remain vigilant and responsive to the increasing risks faced by individuals engaged in political activities.
The CHR reaffirms its commitment to promoting and protecting the rights to life, liberty, and security, including those of local officials serving their communities. We continue to work closely with relevant government and law enforcement agencies to ensure a just, fair, and transparent investigation and prosecution of these cases. ###