NEGROS — Prosecutor Chris Gonzales of the Joint Regional Task Force 6 – Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF6-ELCAC) condemned the New People’s Army (NPA) for the killings of two civilians this month and criticized human rights advocates and the Makabayan Bloc for remaining silent.

The victims, Jomy Pelarta and Raul Loterio, were killed on November 6 and November 13, respectively, after being allegedly tagged as government “spies.” The NPA’s Romeo Nanta Command claimed responsibility for the attacks, adding to a record of at least 15 civilian deaths since 2024. Gonzales said previous “spy-tagging” killings by the group numbered around 20.

Speaking at a FAQCheck press briefing, Gonzales said: “The NPA’s ‘spy-tagging’ executions are nothing short of terrorism, masquerading as revolution. It is utterly reprehensible. What is equally disturbing, however, is the deafening silence from those who claim to be defenders of human rights.”

He directly challenged human rights groups and the Makabayan Bloc in Congress, saying their silence “makes them complicit in perpetuating a climate of fear and impunity.” Gonzales added, “If they truly stand for human rights, they must denounce violence and terrorism in all its forms, without exception. Their silence speaks volumes and betrays their true allegiances.”

Former NPA member Arian Jane Ramos, of the Buklod Kapayapaan group, said the NPA is often shielded by legal fronts who avoid condemning its actions. Ramos added that efforts are underway to gather evidence against the Makabayan Bloc, though political obstacles make accountability difficult.

Gonzales urged the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to conduct motu proprio investigations into the killings and to examine those who enable or support the NPA. “The CHR has the power to help identify those who enable the killing of innocent civilians. Their action is critical,” he said.

Echoing the prosecutor, Capt. Jun Ebalan of the 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army, called on local governments, communities, and religious groups to publicly condemn the CPP-NPA’s actions. “They are few, but they exploit fear. Report their movements, deny them refuge, and together we will end their reign of terror,” Ebalan said.