Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) is seeking a fair, impartial and fact-based inquiry into the armed encounter in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, that left 19 dead.
The inquiry will provide a proper forum and opportunity for all concerned parties to present their version of facts, submit reports, and clarify accounts surrounding the incident, he said on Wednesday, April 29.
Benitez, in House Resolution 968 filed Wednesday, asked that the appropriate committee of the House of Representatives be directed to conduct the inquiry “for the purpose of establishing the factual circumstances surrounding the incident and determining whether enactment of a legislative measure is necessary to avoid similar incidents from happening”.
Benitez said on April 19 an armed encounter occurred in Barangay Salamanca between the troops of the 79th Infantry “Masaligan” Battalion under the 303rd Infantry Brigade, and several individuals allegedly affiliated with the New People’s Army.
“Following the incident, conflicting and opposing public narratives have emerged, with varying assertions attributing responsibility for the incident to both the deceased individuals and members of the Philippine Army, necessitating an impartial investigation to establish an accurate account of the facts,” he said.
The results of such investigation may provide insights and information as possible basis for an appropriate legislative measure to address and prevent similar incidents and related concerns from happening in the future, should any arise, he added.
Meanwhile, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTOMS) said it will look into the death of community journalist RJ Nichole Ledesma in Toboso.
“We acknowledge the conflicting narratives regarding the deceased’s affiliations. Establishing the truth through a comprehensive examination of evidence is essential, in line with International Humanitarian Law and human rights standards,” PTOMS said in a statement.
It said it welcomes the Commission on Human Rights’ (CHR) independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.
“It is imperative that all facts are thoroughly and impartially verified to ensure justice and accountability,” PTOMS sad.
It reiterated its reminder to media personnel operating in conflict zones to adhere to safety protocols.
“Wearing vests, badges, or other markings that clearly identify journalistic status can help distinguish journalists from combatants, reducing the risk of misidentification,” PTOMS said.
“While these measures cannot guarantee safety, they are important risk-reduction strategies that enable journalists to navigate dangerous environments effectively and minimize potential harm”, it said.
“The loss of lives underscores the ongoing human cost of armed conflicts and the need to address their root causes to foster sustainable peace,” the PTOMS statement added.*
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