After more than five years in prison, a court in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental acquitted a pastor and six activists in two murder cases and seven attempted murder cases. The court issued its decision on November 18.

The court acquitted Pastor Jimie Teves, Jodito Montesino, Jaypee Romano, Jasper Aguyong, Rogen Sabanal, Eliseo Andres, and Rodrigo Medez (known as the Himamaylan 7) for lack of evidence. The seven were arrested in Himamaylan City in June 2019. They were implicated in an armed encounter between the New People’s Army (NPA) and AFP soldiers in Kabankalan City in May 2018.

The families of the accused and Pastor Teves’ colleagues in the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) were overjoyed by the acquittal of the victims. They were present in court to support the Himamaylan 7 and to receive the court’s decision.

While the release of their loved ones is a victory, the families cannot forget the pain of separation for nearly six years. “We have lost so much time with our loved ones—moments that we can never get back,” Pastor Teves’ daughter Jelyn Teves said. She added that no one deserves to undergo such suffering.

The Himamaylan 7 case received widespread attention and support from various human rights groups. “The UCCP was vocal at the peak of the prosecution and supported the Himamaylan 7, denouncing what it called [injustice against the victims],” stated the UCCP.

The church believes this is a victory for truth and justice, and they expressed great relief at the decision. “The acquittal of Pastor Teves and his companions is a response to the prayers of the entire church. It also serves as proof of the power of community support,” the UCCP added.

The victims’ lawyer Atty. Rey Gorgonio said the state should stop using the justice system to repress innocent civilians. In light of this, the families of the victims are calling for accountability and meaningful reform in the justice system to prevent such situations from recurring.