An initial report from residents of Sitio Bulasot, Brgy. Buenavista claims elements from the 94th Infantry Batallion (IB) killed a peasant, whose identity is yet to be confirmed, last August 8.

The incident occured prior to the armed encounter between elements of the 94th IB and the New People’s Army (NPA) on August 10.

In the middle of the encounter, the soldiers from 94th IB told the residents to abandon their homes and flee. While the residents were away, the soldiers forcibly occupied their homes.

The 94th IB are also reportedly harassing and chasing down youth, most of whom are minors and some even infants, alleging they are children of rebels. They also threaten to harass families who are taking care of said children.

The residents expressed fear for their lives and demanded the state elements pull out immediately.

Sitio Bulasot is home to Indigenous Peoples of the Maghat-Bukidnon Tribe.

For over a year, the community has been rapidly militarized as the hinterlands of Himamaylan are seen as areas for potential extraction of valuable natural resources by foreign investors.