đź“·: Chantal Anicoche, a Filipino community leader based in the United States, was reported missing after being caught in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, on January 1, 2026, during military attacks by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (Bayan USA | FB)
The Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) has condemned what it described as escalating human rights abuses in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, allegedly brought about by indiscriminate bombing and intensified military operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
In a statement, Bayan accused the Marcos Jr. administration of enabling violations of human rights and international humanitarian law through counterinsurgency policies that, it said, have inflicted “horrific consequences” on rural and indigenous communities.
The group argued that instead of addressing the roots of armed conflict, the government has resorted to militarized responses that have displaced villagers and heightened insecurity.
Bayan linked the military operations to renewed mining and energy projects in Mindoro, claiming that state forces are being deployed to protect the interests of corporations, landlords, and officials involved in resource extraction.
The group further alleged that humanitarian teams have been barred from delivering aid, while human rights defenders face harassment and red-tagging.
The organization questioned whether Abra de Ilog is now under a “de facto Martial Law regime,” citing reports of bombings in civilian areas, suppression of dissent, and restrictions on information.
It called for an immediate halt to AFP offensives to allow humanitarian access, as well as an independent investigation into the impact of military operations on affected communities.
“We demand a cessation of offensive military operations by the AFP to allow the entry of humanitarian aid into the affected areas. An independent probe on the impact of these military operations in the communities of Abra de Ilog is urgently needed.”
Bayan also urged the government to review and reverse mining, real estate, and energy projects that it said threaten ancestral lands and the environment.
The group appealed for solidarity with indigenous peoples and residents of Mindoro, urging Filipinos and international advocates to speak out against what it described as worsening state repression.
“Defend Abra de Ilog,” Bayan declared, adding, “Stop the bombings in Mindoro. Funds should go to services, not to fascist violence and corruption.” (ZIA LUNA)
