CHR probes Negros Occidental encounter

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has initiated its own investigation into the reported armed encounter that left 19 people dead in Toboso, Negros Occidental last week.

The CHR said its regional office in the Negros Island Region opened the independent probe following reports of violations of the international humanitarian law.

“The commission notes the inconsistencies in the identities of those dead. While the Armed Forces of the Philippines maintains that the casualties were members of an armed group, other organizations assert that some victims… were civilians engaged in community work,” the CHR said.

“Either of the claims requires thorough independent verification. Determination of status, circumstances of engagement and proportionality must be based on verifiable facts and due process. In case of doubt, persons shall be presumed civilians,” it added.

Among those who were confirmed killed were student leader Alyssa Alano and community journalist RJ Nichole Ledesma.

The Communist Party of the Philippines denied the military’s claim that all 19 casualties were armed rebels, saying only a “small squad composed of revolutionary fighters led by Roger ‘Ka Jhong’ Fabillar” were involved in the encounter. 

The CHR stressed that, under the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), indiscriminate attacks are prohibited and civilians are protected unless they directly participate in hostilities.

“Allegation of unlawful killing or violation of IHL and human rights law require prompt, effective, impartial and independent investigation, and accountability where violation is established,” the rights body said.

The CHR expressed concern over the displacement of over a hundred families due to the military operations.

“The commission calls on authorities to ensure adequate humanitarian assistance, protection from further displacement and access to basic services, in line with human rights and humanitarian standards” the CHR said.

It called on “all parties to cooperate fully with the investigation, preserve evidence, ensure unimpeded access to information and sites, and comply strictly with IHL and human rights standards.”