A human rights group is accusing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) of violating international humanitarian law in the conduct of military operations against the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, which allegedly led to the death of one student on 01 January 2026.

Left-leaning group Karapatan said the military carried out aerial strafing and bombing in areas where civilians reside, endangering lives and devastating communities, including the farms of indigenous peoples.

The group called on the AFP to stop all aerial attacks, withdraw military forces from civilian communities, and allow independent fact-finding and humanitarian access to affected areas.

The military has previously branded Karapatan as aiding communist rebels, including allegedly assisting arrested and detained communist leaders.

The Philippine Army’s 203rd Infantry Brigade said its troops initially conducted ground operations after residents reported the presence of armed NPA members in Sitio Mamara, Barangay Cabacao. This resulted in three armed encounters with communist guerrillas.

The brigade said that due to difficult terrain and limited maneuver space that hampered troop movement, guided close air support was later employed to prevent the armed group from regrouping and expanding their movement to nearby areas.

“Following the air support operation, government forces immediately secured the area and conducted clearing operations,” the brigade said in a statement.

During the post-operation assessment, troops discovered the abandoned lifeless body of a female NPA member later identified as Jerlyn Rose Doydora, who was reported to be a student of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

Two soldiers were wounded during the encounters and were airlifted for medical treatment at the AFP Medical Center.

The AFP’s Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) said air support was used to ensure the safety of ground troops and to facilitate the immediate evacuation of a soldier wounded by an improvised explosive device.

SOLCOM said the use of air support was in line with the AFP’s Rules of Engagement and operational protocols, which take into consideration civilian welfare.

Karapatan, however, alleged that military helicopters were seen dropping bombs and conducting strafing runs in mountainous areas where civilian communities are located.

KARAPATAN Secretary General Cristina Palabay said aerial strafing and bombing are blatant violations of international humanitarian law.

“Indiscriminate air attacks in areas where civilian communities reside trample on the principles of distinction and proportionality under IHL, and amount to excessive use of force,” Palabay said.

Karapatan urged the Commission on Human Rights, concerned government agencies, and local government units to investigate the incidents and ensure that civilian authority is upheld in Abra de Ilog.

“There can be no justification for raining bombs and bullets on people’s homes and livelihood,” Palabay said.