The Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division has urged the New People’s Army (NPA) to release Filipino-American Cristina Pasion after handwritten notes believed to be hers showed signs of emotional distress.
The appeal followed a March 29 encounter in Occidental Mindoro that resulted in the death of Army Captain Dean Buen Oyando and injuries to two other soldiers. Troops recovered the handwritten notes at the site after the clash.
Authorities also arrested Charlize Garzon during the incident. She is now facing murder and homicide charges in connection with the encounter.
According to the Army, the recovered writings described mental strain and expressed a desire to leave, raising concerns about Pasion’s well-being. Officials said the contents of the notes suggested emotional distress, prompting calls for her safe release.
Reports indicated that Pasion, who has been linked to Migrante International, traveled to Mindoro with another Filipino-American. She was last seen with the individual before the two were separated during an encounter in January.
Authorities also noted that Pasion failed to return to the United States as scheduled in March, further raising concern about her situation.
Colonel Michael Aquino called on NPA members to allow Pasion to leave if she wishes, emphasizing humanitarian considerations and the importance of addressing mental health concerns.
Aquino also encouraged Pasion’s family to reach out and provide support to help facilitate her return home.
The Army division reiterated its broader call for remaining insurgents to surrender and reintegrate into society peacefully.
Officials maintained that their appeal is grounded in humanitarian concern, particularly in light of the distress indicated in the recovered writings.
