The Filipino-American activist found near the site of a deadly skirmish in Occidental Mindoro has chosen to remain in military custody to undergo medical treatment, the Philippine Army said Sunday.
This, as Chantal Anicoche signed an affidavit and an undertaking expressing her intent to stay at the 2nd Infantry Division Station Hospital at Camp Capinpin in Rizal, according to military officials.
The Army said the document was signed in the presence of a lawyer from the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to ensure the decision was voluntary and free from intimidation.
“The 2nd Infantry Division honors her intent and recognizes the primacy of addressing her medical condition after she suffered difficult physical and mental challenges,” said Col. Michael Aquino, 2ID spokesperson.
Troops from the 203rd Infantry Brigade reportedly found Anicoche on 8 January hiding in a hole in the ground in Abra de Ilog. The site was roughly 400 meters from where government forces had recently engaged in combat with New People’s Army rebels.
The military claims Anicoche, a U.S. citizen, had been left behind by fleeing rebels and had gone eight days without food or water.
Anicoche’s detention has drawn sharp criticism from human rights and migrant advocacy groups. Supporters identified her as a recent psychology graduate of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and a community organizer.
These groups allege she went missing following military bombardment in the area and have called for her immediate release, citing concerns for her safety.
