The Commission on Human Rights on Friday condemned the fatal attack on a party-list leader in Pangasinan.
In a statement, the Commission announced that it has intervened in the killing of Ponciano Onia, president of the Abono party-list and an incumbent Umingan town councilor.
Onia is seeking reelection in the upcoming 2025 midterm polls.
“As part of its mandate, the Commission has also dispatched a quick response operation to conduct its independent investigation,” the CHR said in a statement.
On December 7, Onia was attacked while driving home and was peppered with bullets.
The CHR acknowledged that although local authorities are still investigating the incident, the Commission on Elections has opened the possibility of a politically motivated killing.
“We express deep concern over the persistent violence targeting public officials as the 2025 midterm elections approach. We take this opportunity to reiterate our stance: any act of violence undermines the collective goal of building safer and more peaceful communities,” it added.
The Commission emphasized that the gravity of such incidents cannot be overstated, as they cultivate a culture of fear within communities, discouraging constituents from participating in political activities due to safety concerns.
“It is also essential that we safeguard those who dedicate themselves to becoming local leaders so that we may ensure an effective delivery of public services to Filipinos.”
