CHR condemns killing of Maguindanao town vice mayor, bodyguard
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has condemned the killing of South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur Vice Mayor Roldan Benito and his bodyguard Weng Marcos last August 2.
The ambush of Benito and Marcos happened in in Barangay Pandan. The two were with Benito's family in a pickup truck when they were approached by armed individuals with long firearms.
Their vehicle was attacked, which also resulted in the wounding of Benito's wife, who is also the incumbent chairperson of Barangay Pandan.
In response to the attack, the CHR has already deployed a Quick Response Operation through CHR Region XII to aid in the pursuit of truth and to investigate the matter. As of now, the Commission noted that the motive of the attack has yet to be determined.
"CHR notes that this incident is a recent addition to the long list of violence committed against elected government officials this 2024. We express our concern over the continued occurrences of violence committed against public officials as the 2025 midterm elections draw closer," the CHR said in a statement.
"Continued occurrences of violence only cultivate a climate of fear amongst the voters and public officials themselves, and may bring detrimental implications on the results of the upcoming elections. Whether this incident is politically - motivated or not, we emphasize that every human being has the right to live without fear of harm of violence," it added.
The CHR has likewise recognized the swift action and coordination carried out by the law enforcement agencies in the area, particularly the South Upi Police and the Philippine Army in conducting the appropriate investigation regarding the incident.
Given this incident, the CHR reiterated its call for the Philippine government to take the necessary measures to exact accountability from perpetrators, as this is the only way to genuinely curb impunity and address the culture of violence, especially against those engaged in political activities.
"As a democratic country, we must ensure that every Filipino’s right to a peaceful electoral process and that all local leaders are able to serve their respective communities safely and free from any threat," the CHR said.