Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. stated that a University of the Philippines (UP) student activist killed in a clash with the New People's Army (NPA) was armed at the time of the encounter.
In a press briefing, Brawner said the student was found to be carrying a firearm and was confirmed to be a member of the NPA's urban guerrilla unit. He did not provide further details on the identity of the student pending notification of the family.
The student was among several individuals killed in a series of military operations against the communist rebel group in a remote area. Human rights groups have called for an independent investigation into the incident, questioning the official account.
Brawner defended the military's actions, stating that all operations were conducted within the bounds of the law and that the AFP remains committed to protecting civilians while combating insurgency.