The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) vehemently denounces the killing of a barangay captain in Arayat, Pampanga, who was intently targeted inside the barangay hall. The CHR Region 3 has taken cognisance of the incident and has deployed a Quick Response Operation (QRO) to determine the details behind the incident.
According to reports, barangay captain Norberto “Mel” Lumbang was gunned down by currently unidentified suspects who alighted from a black vehicle in front of the barangay hall in Brgy. Lacquios on 11 August 2024.
It must be noted that prior to the incident, Lumbang has signified his intention to run as vice mayor in the 2025 midterm elections.
CHR denounces all acts which impede upon every person’s right to life. Given the upcoming 2025 midterm elections, these acts of violence against officials will also impact the safe environment for every Filipino voter and their right to freely participate in electoral processes. Not only do these instill fear amongst constituents, but also send a threat amongst local leaders and candidates seeking to serve the public.
Similar acts of violence committed against local officials also disrupt the efficient delivery of service, thereby affecting the quality of local leadership and our progress towards cultivating communities to be free from any form of violence.
The Commission urges the authorities to cooperate promptly in delivering justice to the victims’ families and capturing the perpetrators. Additionally, the CHR advises the public to remain vigilant and report any unusual activities in their communities that could jeopardize their safety and peace.
We recognize the prompt investigation currently being carried out by the Philippine National Police (PNP) Central Luzon, alongside the swift formation of a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) Lumbang in order to focus on the incident and to ascertain the identities of the suspects.
As the country’s independent national human rights institution, the Commission stresses that all acts of violence contradict the overall goal towards fostering a safer and more peaceful society. Let us collectively work towards respecting the sanctity of human life and dignity above all else. ###