The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas (NDF-EV) called on the 8th ID and the Marcos regime forces to respect the rights of two wounded New People’s Army (NPA) Red fighters captured by the 46th IB on September 13. NDF-EV received a report that Ka Aye and Ka Tin-tin, both wounded, were captured following the clashes in Barangay Concepcion, Paranas, Samar.

“Their rights as captured combatants must be respected in accordance with international humanitarian law (IHL),” the NDF-EV stated. The opposing armed forces must also provide medical attention immediately, it added.

The NDF-EV expressed concern over the two wounded Red fighters’ condition, knowing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)’s modus operandi of torture and intimidation of its captives. “Some of them are even willfully killed despite clear incapacity to fight back,” the group said.

In connection to this, the NDF-EV appealed to local and international human rights organizations to help ensure that the 8th ID and AFP recognize the rights of hors de combat.

Meanwhile, Gerry dela Cruz (Ka Justin) was reportedly martyred in the armed clashes. The NDF-EV honored him for his unwavering sacrifice of life for the toiling masses’ national and democratic aspirations.