Captured NPA member to face murder charges in Mindoro clash

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will file murder charges against a captured member of the New People’s Army (NPA) following a clash in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro on 29 March that left an Army officer dead and two soldiers wounded.

The encounter resulted in the death of Capt. Dean Buen Oyando, who was leading troops in pursuit of fleeing rebels. The military also recovered an M16 rifle, a hand grenade, and components for improvised explosive devices at the scene.

The suspect, identified as Charlize Garzon, also known as Ka Kaye, is now under the custody of the San Jose Municipal Police Station. She was captured during the operation.

The Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division also called for respect for human dignity after photos and personal details of the suspect circulated online. Army spokesperson Col. Michael Aquino said the military withheld such information to protect her rights and ensure proper handling under humanitarian principles.

“Even if a person has taken up arms against the government, that does not mean we strip them of their basic rights and dignity. As soldiers, we are duty-bound to respect human rights at all times,” Aquino said.

The Army urged the public to be discerning of information shared online and to support efforts promoting responsible reporting and lasting peace.