Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. has assured his openness to any investigation into the controversial encounter in Toboso, Negros Occidental. According to Brawner, the military is ready to answer all questions regarding the clash that resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals.
Brawner's Assurance
General Brawner emphasized that the evidence clearly shows the deceased individuals were armed at the time of the encounter, which occurred more than a week ago on April 19. He also maintained that the Philippine Army did not violate the human rights of those killed.
Call for NPA Investigation
Brawner further asserted that the New People's Army (NPA) should also be investigated for its series of killings, especially targeting innocent civilians. Among the fatalities in the clash were University of the Philippines (UP) student councilor Alysa Allano, US citizens Lyle Prijoles and Kai Dana-Rene Sorem, and others.
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) previously announced that it would conduct a thorough investigation into the encounter. The AFP chief's statement comes amid growing public scrutiny and calls for transparency in the incident.
