MANILA - The Commission on Human Rights has condemned the recent killings of human rights activists Ryan Hubilla, Nelly Bagalasa and Neptali Morada in Bicol.
Hubilla and Bagalasa of the group Karapatan were gunned down on June 15, 2019 in Sorsogon while Morada of was shot in Naga City Monday.
“These are the recent alarming attacks in a spate of condemnable violence and hostility directed towards members of activist groups particularly in areas where there is increased military presence. We note that the Karapatan members were previously subjected to alleged periodic surveillance by government security forces,” CHR spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement.
The CHR said its Region 5 offices deployed a quick response team to probe the incidents.
The agency also said the recent killings, as well as past incidents, further warrant the need for the passage of Human Rights Defenders Protection Bill when the 18th Congress opens to ensure prosecution of those that commit violations against activists.
“The killings have been continuing and escalating but there is seemingly no proactive actions being done to protect human rights activists from another brash attack,” de Guia said.
CHR, Commission on Human Rights, Jacqueline Ann de Guia, Bicol region, Bayan Muna, Neptali Morada, Nelly Bagalasa, Ryan Hubila, activists