The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has condemned the “tragic” killing of farmer Romeo "Rommy" Torres of Norzagaray, Bulacan, whose remains were found on February 5 in Mabitac, Laguna.
It urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bulacan to expedite the resolution of the case and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia described Torres’ death as "di-makataong pagpaslang (inhuman murder)," and reiterated the commission's call to stop the attacks and harassment against peasant groups.
"Kalunos-lunos ang sinapit ng magsasakang si Romeo 'Rommy' Torres na di-umano'y binaril, isinilid sa drum, at itinapon sa creek. Si Rommy ay aktibong miyembro ng organisasyon ng mga pesante sa Bulacan na lumalaban para sa kanilang karapatan sa lupa (It is tragic and chilling what happened to farmer Romeo 'Rommy' Torres as he was reportedly shot, placed inside a drum, and thrown into a creek. Rommy was an active member of the Bulacan peasants' organization fighting for their land rights)," said De Guia, a lawyer.
Instead of receiving threats and intimidation, De Guia said it's time that these farmers and peasants receive "ang nararapat para sa kanila” (what they deserve).
Meanwhile, De Guia said the CHR’s Regional Office III has started conducting its own investigation on Torres’ death.