Mugshots of fisherfolk leader Rogelio de Asis. Photo from PNP-PIO
MANILA, Philippines — The leader of fisherfolk group Pamalakaya in Caraga region was arrested on Thursday in Agusan del Norte over his alleged involvement in the killing of Manobo tribe members, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday.
In a statement, PNP chief General Debold Sinas identified the suspect as Rogelio de Asis, who is also chairman of Anakpawis’ Caraga chapter. The suspect was referred to as Lucio “Luds” de Asis by Pamalakaya, of which he is a coordinator.
Sinas said authorities arrested de Asis in a joint operation in Purok 2, Barangay Matabao, Buenavista at 9 p.m.
The operation stemmed from arrest warrants against de Asis for violations of Section 6 (Other Crimes Against humanity) of Republic Act 9851, the penalizing crimes against the International Humanitarian Law, Genocides, and other crimes against humanity, and murder issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 27 in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.
De Asis was among the suspects in the murder of Zaldy Acidillo Ybañez and Datu Bernandino Astudillo, members of the Manobo tribe in Surigao del Sur on March 19, 2020, Sinas said.
According to Pamalakaya, however, de Asis’ arrest was based on “trumped up” charges, as it called on the police to release their leader.
The fisherfolk organization said de Asis actively participated in promoting “fishing rights and protection of coastal and marine resources.”
“(D)e Asis, coordinator of PAMALAKAYA and Anakpawis in Caraga region, was illegally arrested and charged with trumped-up cases in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, yesterday,” the group said.
“De Asis should be immediately and unconditionally released; leave him be and our organization that advances the basic rights of small fisherfolk,” it added.