Army denies abuse of captured NPA rebel in Mindoro
LUCENA CITY—The military has denied allegations that Charlize Cameron Garzon, an alleged New People’s Army (NPA) rebel captured in Occidental Mindoro, was subjected to intimidation, harassment or torture.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division (2ID), citing a report from the 203rd Infantry Brigade, said Garzon was apprehended during a legitimate armed encounter in Barangay Monteclaro in San Jose, on March 29.
The military said Garzon sustained minor scratches and mosquito bites while moving through forested terrain and was immediately brought to the San Jose police station for medical attention.
“Throughout the process, government troops ensured that all standards on human rights and proper handling of detained individuals were strictly followed,” the 2ID said.
Authorities also said Garzon was able to contact her family after disclosing her identity.
Medical evaluation
Photos released by the 2ID showed Garzon with her mother and sister, undergoing medical and psychological evaluation.
Other images showed her using a mobile phone provided by a female soldier to communicate with her family, holding a prayer booklet and happily eating packed fast food with two others.
Army Brig. Gen. Melencio Ragudo, commander of the 203rd Infantry Brigade, said government forces strictly adhere to the rules of engagement, international humanitarian law and human rights protocols during operations and in handling captured individuals.
Garzon is considered a primary suspect in the death of Army Capt. Dean Buen Oyando, who was killed in the same encounter.
Two other soldiers were wounded, one of whom was brought to a military hospital in Metro Manila for further treatment.
The military urged the public to respect due process and allow the legal proceedings to take their course.
It added that troops remain committed to working with local government units and communities to sustain peace and security in San Jose, and across Occidental Mindoro.
