The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is determining if Corporal Marlon Lorigas is suffering from combat stress.
This was after Lorigas allegedly committed verbal abuse against several teachers and students of the Mindanao State University.
The teachers and students said the soldier shouted harsh words at them while ordering them to come out of the bus and to remove their tops during an inspection at a checkpoint in Marantao, Lanao del Sur.
AFP Public Affairs Office (PAO) Chief Col. Edgard Arevalo explained it is not far from possible that Lorigas is experiencing combat stress because of the long battle he is engaged in against terrorists in Marawi City.
Despite this, Arevalo noted the AFP will not tolerate the action of Lorigas as he committed human rights violation especially during the ongoing martial law in Mindanao.
“Whatever reports of abuse we receive especially since martial law is ongoing, violations such as check point rules, and most especially the order of General Año is strict that while martial law is ongoing, we should respect human rights,” said Col. Arevalo.
Aside from dismissal from service, the soldier might also face administrative charges among others.
“Investigation is now ongoing and if he was proven to have committed violations, he will face charges. Administrative case and based on his action. And upon the completion of the investigation, he might face other cases in our court martial,” said the PAO chief.
Arevalo, meanwhile, clarified that the military is now exerting efforts to address the mental health needs of soldiers battling terrorists to avoid a repeat of the said incident.
“That’s part of our investigation, and we have a program for the soldiers, for such situations. And if there are findings… It’s actually not far from possible that in the 85 days of fighting in Marawi City, the soldiers will experience combat stress,” said Arevalo.
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