CHR probes recent northern Negros clashes

BACOLOD City – The Commission on Human Rights ( CHR) began its investigation into the clashes that took place between government forces and the New People’s Army (NPA) in the northern part of Negros Island recently.

Vincent Parra, head of the CHR in Negros Occidental, said the probe is specifically centered on t he t wo fatalities—Jose Caramihan and Emaren Pastidio.

According to the initial information received by the CHR, Caramihan’s family denied his involvement with the rebel movement and claimed that he was only a farmer.

Pastidio’s case , meanwhile, is to ascertain whether her rights, as recognized by the gender ombud under the magna carta for women, have been violated. She is the lone female fatality and allegedly a high-ranking NPA member.

The third fatality in the clashes was Michael Cabahug, who, together with Pastidi, was previously identified as a “child soldier.”

At present, the CHR is gathering additional statements and evidence regarding the clashes and is getting in touch with the families of the two fatalities.

Meanwhile, a ninth encounter took place on Tuesday morning, Feb. 27, between the Philippine Army’s 79th I nfantry Battalion ( 79IB) and the NPA rebels believed to be remnants of the dismantled Northern Negros Front.

According to the 79IB, the encounter took place in the hinterland areas of Escalante City.

Following t he new clashes in the area, Mayor Melecio Yap Jr. again ordered the suspension of classes for all levels in the villages of Libertad, Pinapugasan, Binaguiohan, Paitan, Dian-ay, Magsaysay, Malasibog, and Tamlang until further notice.

As of writing, the 79IB has yet to release information regarding the new clashes in the area.

The series of encounters began last week, on Feb. 21, in Sitio Mansulao, Barangay Pinapugasan of Escalante City.