The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), through its regional offices, has initiated an independent investigation into the alarming killings of local executives and election candidates in Zamboanga del Sur and Maguindanao.
We vehemently condemn these heinous acts, which violate the most fundamental of all rights—the right to life—targeting public officials and candidates as we approach the 2025 National and Local Elections.
On January 3, 2025, a councilor from Barangay Upper Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur, was brutally gunned down, suffering 12 gunshot wounds. The following day, January 4, another councilor from Barangay Lantawan in the same municipality was fatally shot while riding their motorcycle.
In a separate incident, the chair of Barangay Sambulawan in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao del Sur, was shot multiple times at their home shortly after praying on the balcony on January 3, 2025. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, the victim was pronounced dead on arrival.
Tragically, on January 18, 2025, a candidate for municipal council in Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao del Norte, was ambushed and killed on the spot while riding a motorcycle home from the Midsayap area. The victim was also a former chair and councilor of Barangay Paulino Labio.
Authorities are still investigating whether these killings were politically motivated.
The Commission expresses its utmost concern over the recurring reports of local officials being attacked and killed, as these incidents undermine the integrity and effectiveness of public service and cultivate a culture of fear and violence in communities.
This also jeopardizes the safety of individuals. We must remember that a secure environment is essential for conducting proper and credible elections, enabling every citizen and voter to participate in political processes without fear for their safety.
The CHR remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding and safeguarding the rights to life, liberty, and security, including those dedicated to serving their respective communities. We will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure that these cases are investigated and prosecuted with justice, fairness, and transparency.
