“We have put a premium in respecting human rights,” said Captain Reylan Java, 3ID spokesman, after an indigenous group reiterated the call for the Army to withdraw its presence in Iloilo and Capiz towns that are found in the mountain ranges of Central Panay.
On Monday, Barangay Captain Roy Giganto of Lahog village in Tapaz, Capiz said the indigenous communities in both provinces are again gripped by fear.
Giganto said the series of encounters between government forces and the New People’s Army (NPA), with the latest attack last Sunday, has increased their risks in becoming collateral damage.
The Sunday ambush killed Private First Class Marlon Gahum while wounding 1st Lieutenant Joselito Dalida, 2nd Lieutenant Lisbon Ceasar Brawner, Corporal Renante Vicente, and Private First Class Arman Gemoranon.
Giganto said they are taking their petition to the local government units in both provinces and urged local officials to act on their call to oust the Army.
According to Giganto, they can become civilian casualties in any event that the army and NPA will clash again as troops have temporarily set-up camps in their barangay halls and multipurpose halls.
Java clarified that the soldiers are only staying temporarily and have used the barangay facilities after consultation with officials.
He also emphasized that the hierarchy of the 3ID has not received complaints or petition calling for their ouster in Central Panay.
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