ABRA DE ILOG, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO — The mother of Jerlyn Rose Doydora, a 22‑year‑old student from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, has publicly condemned local official Renee Co following her daughter’s death during a violent clash in Occidental Mindoro on New Year’s Day. In a raw and emotional statement, she declared: “Walang hiya ka!” — words that have since become a rallying cry for justice in the province.

The Incident in Mindoro

Jerlyn Doydora was killed on January 1, 2026, in Sitio Mamara, Barangay Cabacao, Abra de Ilog, during an encounter between government forces and members of the New People’s Army (NPA). According to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF‑ELCAC), she was among those caught in the crossfire. 

The agency expressed sympathy, stating: “We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Jerlyn Rose Doydora. No family should have to bury a child, and no young Filipino should be lured away from school and home into armed conflict.”

Meanwhile, the National Democratic Front (NDF)‑Mindoro disputed the official account, claiming that Jerlyn died after suffering an illness exacerbated by what it described as “ruthless AFP bombing.” NDF spokesperson Ma. Patricia Andal said: “Jerlyn Rose Doydora died after suffering an attack related to an existing illness, worsened by the military’s operations.”

Accusations Against Renee Co

In the aftermath, Jerlyn’s mother directed her anger at Renee Co, accusing the official of negligence and complicity in the events that led to her daughter’s death. Her cry of “Walang hiya ka” was aimed at Co, whom she blames for failing to protect civilians and for allegedly allowing military operations that endangered students and residents. 

The accusation has intensified scrutiny of local governance in Occidental Mindoro, where residents have long voiced concerns about the impact of counter‑insurgency campaigns on communities.

The tragedy highlights the ongoing tension between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and insurgent groups in rural provinces. Similar incidents have occurred in recent years, raising questions about the safety of civilians and youth activists in conflict zones. 

In 2025, student volunteers in Quezon and Samar were also reported killed during military operations, sparking debates about the risks faced by young people engaged in community work.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has consistently called for impartial investigations into civilian deaths, stressing that accountability must extend to both armed groups and government forces. The case of Jerlyn Doydora is now seen as part of a wider pattern of civilian casualties linked to counter‑insurgency campaigns.

Public Reaction and Calls for Justice

Jerlyn’s death has galvanized student organizations and activists. Kabataan Partylist confirmed her involvement in its General Secretariat and condemned the incident, demanding justice for her and other youth caught in armed conflict. Online, hashtags such as #JusticeForJerlyn and #MindoroClash have trended, reflecting widespread outrage. 

Residents in Abra de Ilog have expressed fear that continued militarization will lead to more civilian casualties, while analysts warn that unresolved allegations against officials like Renee Co could deepen mistrust between citizens and authorities.

Will Jerlyn be another statistic?

Jerlyn Doydora is dead, and the country still lacks clear answers. Conflicting accounts describe crossfire, illness, and bombing, while condolences replace conclusions. What remains unresolved is responsibility. Who ensured civilians were protected? Who authorized operations in communities with students present? Who verifies the truth beyond press statements?

Grief has pushed Jerlyn’s mother to name power publicly, not to pass judgment but to demand accountability. That demand should not be dismissed. Independent investigations matter. Transparency matters. Accountability must reach decisions, not just outcomes.

Jerlyn should not become another statistic debated then forgotten. Justice begins with answers.
Who answers for Jerlyn now?

 Image from KABATAAN PARTYLIST