The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), through its regional offices, is conducting an independent investigation on the reported killings of local executives and election candidates in Zamboanga del Sur and Maguindanao. We denounce similar incidents which violate the most fundamental of all rights—the right to life—this time affecting public officials and candidates as we approach the 2025 National and Local Elections.
On 03 January 2025, a councilor from Barangay Upper Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur suffered 12 gunshot wounds, resulting in their immediate death. The following day, 04 January, another councilor from Barangay Lantawan, in the same municipality, was fatally shot while riding their motorcycle.
Meanwhile, the chair of Barangay Sambulawan in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao del Sur was shot multiple times at their home shortly after praying on the balcony on 03 January 2025. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, the victim was pronounced dead on arrival.
A candidate for municipal council in Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao del Norte died on the spot on 18 January 2025 after being ambushed while riding a motorcycle home from the Midsayap area. The victim was also a former chair and councilor of Barangay Paulino Labio.
According to reports, authorities are still determining whether the motive behind the killings are politically motivated.
The Commission expresses its utmost concern on the recurring reports of local officials being attacked and killed, as these undermine the integrity and effectiveness of public service and cultivates a culture of fear and violence in communities.
This also jeopardizes the safety of individuals. We must be reminded that a secure environment is essential for conducting proper and credible elections, thereby enabling every citizen and voter to participate in political processes without fear for their safety.
The CHR is firm in its commitment to upholding and safeguarding the rights to life, liberty, and security, including those who are dedicated to serving their respective communities. We remain steadfast in collaborating with the relevant agencies to ensure that these cases are investigated and prosecuted with justice, fairness, and transparency.###