AI condemns attempt on Surigao doctor’s life

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – An international human rights watchdog has called on authorities to fast-track the investigation into the recent attempt on the life of physician-environmentalist Isidro Olan in Carmen, Surigao del Sur.

The Amnesty International (AI) has issued a statement condemning Olan’s shooting, as it urged the police to “conduct an immediate impartial investigation in order to bring the perpetrators to justice.”

“The incident should be treated with utmost concern among authorities not only in Surigao del Sur but also by the national government,” said Dr. Aurora Corazon Parong, section director of AI Philippines.

Parong said the police must also ensure the safety of Olan and his family.

Olan, who heads the environmental group Lovers of Nature Foundation Inc., has been vocal against illegal logging activities in the Caraga region.

Meanwhile, Olan was transferred to another hospital after being treated at the Madrid District Hospital in Surigao del Sur.

A special police task force has been formed to investigate the attack on Olan.