• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Human rights lawyer and national security law expert Atty. Dino De Leon called for a comprehensive internal investigation within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), following the armed encounter in Toboso, Negros Occidental, that left 19 people dead.
De Leon, who serves as counsel for Mamamayang Liberal party list Representative and former Senator Leila de Lima, emphasizes that the high casualty count, which includes a minor and a student from the University of the Philippines, requires a transparent probe to determine if the military utilized excessive force.
He asserts that the AFP must use its internal affairs mechanisms to check its own ranks and maintain public credibility while remaining true to its oath to protect civilians.
De Leon said that the military avoids cover-ups to preserve its institutional integrity and argues that the misconduct of a few should not be allowed to tarnish the entire organization.
Alongside internal military oversight, he further urged an independent investigation by the Commission on Human Rights and a congressional inquiry in aid of legislation.
He said the move aims to set clear guidelines for modern warfare and the use of intelligent weapons to prevent the disproportionate use of force in future operations.*
