Amnesty Reports Rising Impunity in Visayas Region

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

Amnesty International Philippines raised concerns about escalating impunity and insufficient human rights progress in the Visayas. During a presentation of their latest report, Amnesty International highlighted threats to communities, human rights defenders, and widespread displacement without accountability.

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The report detailed various human rights violations, including increasing militarization and red-tagging, as evidenced by an April 19 clash in Negros Occidental involving suspected NPA rebels and civilians. Activists’ arrests and the conviction of journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio for alleged terrorism financing further underscore the country’s dire human rights climate. Other issues include the displacement of the Ati people in Boracay and the negative impact on fishermen in Iloilo due to commercial fishing encroachments.

Ritz Lee Santos III, Amnesty International Philippines director, criticized the government for neglecting accountability, stating that corruption and impunity significantly affect livelihoods, education, and community resilience. In response, stakeholders urged the government to prioritize protecting Filipinos' rights over maintaining power.

Going forward, Amnesty International continues to pressure the government to take decisive action to address these human rights concerns and halt the cycle of violence and impunity in the region.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Manila Bulletin · 19 May 2026