Military harassment in communities reportedly led to the deaths of two civilians in Negros in May. Meanwhile, soldiers’ abuses continue in Albay, Masbate, Bohol, and Metro Manila.

In Negros Occidental, extreme fear and trauma from 79th IB operations reportedly led to the death of Lolita Reman in Sitio Toril, Barangay Bandila, Toboso, on May 20. The 79th IB Soldiers raided and ransacked the the Mahusay family’s house where the woman was staying.

A similar incident happened in Barangay Minapasok, Calatrava. Farmer Boyet de Asis suffered a stroke on May 23 after being threatened by seven 79th IB soldiers and traitors Marlon Basalo (Elan) and alias Jonel/Mike in Sitio Kapanuya.

On May 31, 79th IB soldiers forcibly entered and ransacked the home of spouses Alejandro and Maricel Villamero in Sitio Manaysay, Barangay Cambayobo, Calatrava. The soldiers took ₱7,000 cash, which the couple had long been saving.

In Masbate, 96th MICO soldiers subjected 12 civilians from Uson, Masbate to harsh interrogation during the last week of May. They were forced to admit having links to the NPA. Fear and trauma from the interrogation worsened the condition of one victim, who had speech difficulties after suffering a heart attack and diabetes complications.

In Negros Oriental, soldiers went to farmer Alan Garde’s home in Barangay Sandayao, Guihulngan City on May 15. They coerced Garde to admit having links to and supporting the NPA. On the same day, soldiers raided and ransacked Rocky Fat’s home, claiming they had confiscated weapons and attempted to arrest him. His family bravely stood firm to stop the arrest.

Starting May 3, the 83rd IB imposed de facto martial law over three barangays in Caramoan, Camarines Sur. Community residents, especially six NPA relatives or supporters, were harassed, threatened, and accused. The military forced some victims to present and “surrender” their spouses, whom they accused of being Red fighters. Soldiers also forcibly and repeatedly entered residents’ homes and illegally took their photos.

In Northern Samar, the AFP placed barangays in Catubig, Las Navas, Gamay, Mapanas, and Palapag under hamlet starting June 4. The military imposed this following the reported encounter between the AFP and the NPA that day in Barangay Nagoocan, Catubig. Residents were prohibited from leaving the village, even to visit their own farms, neighboring villages, or the town center. Before this, the military had been widely forcing Palapag residents to “surrender” their relatives accused of being NPA fighters.

Arrests and filing of fabricated charges. “Ruben,” 47, a construction worker and resident of Barangay Namantao, Daraga, Albay, was arrested for illegal possession of firearms and explosives and alleged NPA membership. The 31st IB elements abducted him from his home on May 23 and brought him to a vacant house. Soldiers fired their weapons to stage a supposed encounter.

In Bohol, the CIDG disseminated fake news and information on May 23 against Carmilo Tabada, a Trinidad town barangay councilor. Police claimed he was arrested on charges of “terrorism financing,” accusing him of being a CPP finance officer. Tabada clarified that he himself went to court and posted bail for the case.