By CESAR JOLITO III
Autopsy findings on the 19 individuals killed in a military operation in Negros Occidental’s Toboso town, including two Filipino-Americans, have raised questions over the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) claim that the incident was a legitimate armed encounter.
The examinations, conducted from April 25 to 29 by forensic pathologist Raquel Fortun at the request of the victims’ families, reportedly revealed alleged mishandling of bodies, possible evidence tampering and inconsistencies in the military’s account of the operation.
Among those killed were Filipino-Americans Lyle Prijoles and Kai Sorem.
According to the findings released by advocacy groups, Fortun noted that several bodies were already in advanced stages of decomposition and were tightly wrapped in plastic, including the faces, when presented for examination.
Fortun also cited the absence of what she described as a proper homicide investigation and inadequate preservation of remains and personal belongings.
The autopsy reportedly found discrepancies between the condition of the bodies and photographs earlier released by the AFP.
In one case, a victim was shown wearing a bulletproof vest, but the corresponding damage allegedly did not match the gunshot wounds found on the body.
Fortun also raised concerns over the identification of one victim believed to be Errol Wendel.
Based on the body’s height, dental features, scars, and clothing, she concluded that the remains turned over by authorities did not match descriptions provided by relatives.
Gunshot wounds from the back
The examinations further indicated that several gunshot wounds were sustained from the back and were caused by high-velocity firearms, according to the report.
One victim reportedly sustained four gunshot wounds, including a leg injury that struck major blood vessels.
Fortun said the victim may have died from blood loss without receiving medical attention, which advocacy groups claimed could constitute a violation of International Humanitarian Law.
The AFP has maintained that the deaths resulted from an armed encounter with suspected insurgents.
However, the latest autopsy findings have intensified calls from human rights advocates and progressive organizations for an independent investigation into the incident.
Groups supporting the victims also condemned alleged online harassment and red-tagging directed at organizations involved in the campaign for justice.
In a statement, Bayan USA said the findings strengthened calls to hold accountable those responsible for the deaths of the “Negros 19.”
Advocacy groups said they plan to continue organizing activities in the coming months to push for justice and greater international attention on the incident./CJ, WDJ