Negros oriental: The Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade in Negros Oriental has expressed its respect for the court’s decision to acquit six youth activists who had been held for seven years on charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives. The individuals, previously identified by the military as members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA), were released following their acquittal.

According to Philippines News Agency, Brig. Gen. Jason Jumawan, the commander of the 302nd Brigade, affirmed in an interview that the military adheres to the rule of law and respects the court’s judgment regarding the case of the so-called Mabinay 6. The activists were apprehended in 2018 during a clash with the 62nd Infantry Battalion in the town of Mabinay. During the encounter, government troops reportedly seized high-powered firearms and explosives, which the activists denied possessing.

The acquittal was based on Judge Marie Rose Inocando’s ruling from the Regional Trial Court, Branch 42, which stated that the prosecutors had failed to establish the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, and highlighted the inadequate handling of evidence by the police. Brig. Gen. Jumawan acknowledged the outcome as a critical learning opportunity for both the military and police to enhance their legal processes.

Brig. Gen. Jumawan emphasized the importance of refining legal procedures during military operations and expressed hope that the experience of the Mabinay 6 would serve as a lesson for the youth, indicating that the seven years spent in detention represented significant lost opportunities.