CHR starts probe on ‘unjust abduction’ of 3 IP rights advocates

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 11) – An Investigation into the alleged abduction of three indigenous peoples (IP) rights advocates by state forces in Oriental Mindoro last month is underway, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said Tuesday.

The CHR said its office in MIMAROPA has deployed a team to conduct an independent investigation into the disappearance of Alia Encela, Job Abednego David, and Jimby del Monte.

Encelo, David, and Del Monte were last seen on Sept. 19. They were allegedly taken by the 4th Infantry Battalion (IB) and 203rd IB in Sitio Malaglag, Barangay Lisap, Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro.

Citing its previous statement, the Philippine Army said the three activists were captured during a legitimate military operation on Sept. 23. It also insisted that improvised landmines and grenades were found in the bags of the activists.

BGen Randolph Cabangbang, commander of the 203rd Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division, also claimed that former communist rebels who have surrendered to the government have identified the three advocates as members of the New People’s Army.

The CHR, meanwhile, emphasized the need to implement Republic Act 10353 or the Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act of 2012 in this case.

“CHR has the duty to investigate any suspected case of enforced or involuntary disappearance as part of our mandate to protect individuals from grave violations especially when such persons are allegedly put into circumstances that place them outside the protection of law,” its statement read.

It added that the right to life, liberty and security of all, regardless of political background, affiliations, and ideological beliefs, must be guaranteed by the government.

The three IP advocates were reportedly investigating human rights violations caused by the bombing for a «test fire» of the 203rd IB in Mangyan communities when they were abducted.