A Philippine government task force on Sunday condemned the killing of a 74-year-old woman in Negros, calling the attack a case of “spy-tagging” that ended in summary execution and warning that similar killings have long terrorized civilian communities in the area.

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said Leonora “Leonor” Anguit, a grandmother, was branded a “spy” before she was shot and killed.

“This was not a robbery. This was not an accident. This was an execution,” said task force executive director Ernesto C. Torres Jr. “Spy-tagging is not just a label. It is a death sentence.”

Based on accounts gathered from the area, the attackers identified themselves as members of the New People’s Army (NPA), deliberately sought out Anguit, isolated her and shot her at close range.

Torres said Anguit was targeted after insurgents had previously used her property and later suffered losses in encounters with government forces.

“Instead of taking responsibility for their own actions, they turned their anger on an elderly civilian,” he said. “Suspicion became a death warrant.”

The task force said the killing fits a broader pattern of spy-tagging and so-called “liquidations” in Negros.

Other ‘victims’

From early to late last year, civilians from various sectors — including farmers, laborers, tricycle drivers, barangay officials, forest guards, vendors and community leaders — were allegedly killed after being labeled informants.

Among those cited were Elberto Ancero Lubon, Cirilo Llena, Efren Solinap, Jonhee Montoya, Rickne Daipal, Jury Gane, Leonardo Nepalar, Jobert Alsado, Elias Palay, Jesmar Pacunla, Isagani Imalay, Enrique Bertucio, Jonestly Vallente Sr., Jessie Tinggab, Johnny Boy dela Fuente, Jerry Emia, Joshua Rabor, Anecito Mahinay, Danny “Gamay” Francisco, Maricel Pantajo, Ariel Calumboy, Joamie Peralta, Danilo Inglatera, Emong Kantala and Michael Robel.

The task force said all were civilians. “These killings were even claimed by NPA units,” Torres said. “That shows intent. This is not revolution. It is terror.”

The task force urged law enforcement agencies to intensify manhunts, evidence gathering and case buildup to ensure arrests and prosecutions. It also called on prosecutors to fast-track inquests and cases involving summary executions and intimidation.

Local government units and barangay councils were urged to strengthen community protection measures and provide immediate security to residents under threat.

The task force also called for expanded access to witness protection, emergency shelter and psychosocial support for affected families.

Torres urged residents to report threats, harassment or so-called “trials” conducted in communities. “Silence is dangerous,” he said. “Silence gives killers time.”