The Commission on Human Rights expresses caution on the move of the administration to deploy more security forces in the Bicol region and the provinces of Samar, Negros Oriental, and Negros Occidental. The recent incidence of violence in the area demands thorough investigation and expedient justice for the victims. This is the more immediate clamor that needs to be addressed to truly stop the cycle of violence. Moreover, there is a need to address the root causes of violence—primarily land issues and the plight of farmers in the said areas.

We call on the government to address these problems instead of simply increasing the presence of security forces, which may escalate tension and fuel fear in the community. We urge the government to pursue development solutions rather than military approach to truly address the long standing problems that impact the basic rights and dignity of the people.