Was my student

While working on an all-nighter for a work requirement, I opened one of my messaging applications for a quick break. It was a press release from one of the government agencies announcing a seemingly successful operation in neutralizing so-called "terrorists" in Negros Occidental. One name stood familiar: Jhon Isidor Supelanas, my former student.

Supelanas was fondly called “Dee” by classmates and was in one of the most memorable classes that I handled. They were my first set of students as a lecturer while dabbling in full-time TV journalism. Dee liked my assignments, as I often required the production of their own broadcast outputs. When the time came for them to make an advertisement, Dee’s output was a parody of the infamous "Las Vegas Models" recruitment. The pandemic came and our classes were cut short, but we often met at mobilizations in downtown Cebu City. This outspoken student didn't really say hello every time I was there to cover, but I always saw a nod as an acknowledgement of my presence. I didn't know I would that would be one of the last times we saw each other.

There are a ton of questions about Dee and others at the area of the incident and the allegation of involvement with the New People's Army. The narratives of activism correlating with terrorism seep into different spaces online and even in person. What we do not know is the truth behind their personal decisions and the way of fighting the current system that we are in. However, regardless of Dee’s legitimacy in the organization, the issue of human rights prevails --they should not have been killed.

It is obvious that when a person is allegedly involved in a crime, the more humane way of asking for accountability is to arrest. Once the arrest is done, the courts have to do their job to prove this allegation. Then again, we were not there when it happened. It could also be easily covered up with the story of posing a threat to the government forces, such as being labeled as armed and dangerous. It is up to the viewers if they will buy the story, but the truth will always find its way to justice.

Dee may be singled out as a former UP student, consistent with the branding of activism, but the incident is also a microcosm. It could happen to any person who wants to do their part to reach an ideal state. My heart goes out to every family member of those gunned down. We continue to long for the day when we no longer have to use firearms to attain peace. I'm sure we can always work hand in hand with diplomacy. I hope there will no longer be any young person whose life will be at risk for whatever work they want to involve themselves in. As long as there is no violation of the law, they should be allowed to explore their full potential. I pray there will be no more “was” in my class lists.