The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) denounces the separate killings of Mohammad Usman Alamada and Elvin Moires on 15 September 2024. As the country’s national human rights institution, the Commission has initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding these tragic incidents.

According to police reports, Alamada, a municipal councilor of Buluan City, was shot while standing with his companions in front of a roadside restaurant. Meanwhile, Moires, a Teduray leader from Barangay South Upi, was fatally attacked after attending a tribal wedding ceremony.

Both men were declared dead due to multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities in the area have taken swift action to identify the perpetrators and ensure accountability. We acknowledge the prompt response of the local authorities and emphasize the importance of delivering justice to the victims’ families.

The Commission raises the alarm in light of the continued spate of violence in recent months, particularly against local officials and, most recently, an indigenous leader.

As we pursue an impartial investigation into these incidents, the Commission urges transparency and cooperation from all involved parties. Simultaneous with our motu proprio investigation, we equally expect the Philippine government to act swiftly in protecting the the right to life of all Filipinos.

With the upcoming elections, it is crucial that every Filipino feels safe and secure in participating in political activities without fear of violence. A truly democratic nation ensures that its citizens can participate freely in political affairs.

Furthermore, it is essential to enhance the protection of indigenous peoples. As duty-bearers, we must increase awareness of their struggles and work toward enacting laws and policies that offer comprehensive protection against harassment and violence.

We reiterate that all forms of violence undermine the nation’s progress toward a safer and more peaceful society. Every Filipino has a responsibility to contribute to the creation of a violence-free environment that upholds the principles of democracy. ###