The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has launched an independent investigation into the armed encounter that occurred in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental on April 19, 2026, resulting in the deaths of at least 19 individuals, including a student leader and a community journalist.
CHR Statement and Coordination
In a statement posted on its Facebook page on Sunday, April 26, the CHR said its office in the Negros Island Region has coordinated with civil society groups, local authorities, security forces, and the families of the victims to facilitate the retrieval of bodies in Toboso and Escalante. The Commission emphasized conflicting claims regarding the identities of the deceased. While the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stated that those killed were members of an armed group, other organizations asserted that some victims, including Alyssa Alano and RJ Nichole Ledesma, were civilians involved in community work.
International Humanitarian Law
The CHR stressed that under International Humanitarian Law (IHL), parties to a conflict must distinguish between combatants and civilians. It warned that indiscriminate attacks are prohibited and that civilians must be protected unless they directly participate in hostilities. Furthermore, allegations of unlawful killings or violations of IHL and human rights law must be addressed through “prompt, effective, fair, and independent investigations,” and those found responsible must be held accountable.
Displacement and Humanitarian Concerns
The Commission also expressed concern over reports that more than 100 families have been displaced due to the incident. It called on authorities to provide humanitarian assistance, prevent further displacement, and ensure access to basic services. The CHR urged all parties to cooperate with the investigation, preserve evidence, and allow unimpeded access to information and affected areas.
US Citizens Among the Dead
Meanwhile, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) confirmed on Sunday, April 26, that two US citizens were among those killed in the bloody encounter in Toboso. In a statement, the NTF-ELCAC identified the deceased Americans as Lyle Prijoles and Kai Dana-Rene Sorem. According to reports, the two Americans arrived in the country at different times in late March 2026 and were believed to have traveled to Negros Occidental. It was also reported that Prijoles had been a member of Anakbayan-USA since 2012, serving in various positions before coming to the Philippines.
