AFP Condemns "Fake News" and "Abduct-Surface-Donate" Scheme in Matias Case

October 23, 2024

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has strongly condemned both the spread of "fake news" and the manipulative tactic known as the "abduct-surface-donate-release" scheme (ASDR) in relation to the recent surrender of Fhobie Matias, a former member of the New People's Army (NPA).

During an online press conference facilitated by the National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Tuesday, BGen. Randolph G. Cabangbang, Commander of the 203rd Infantry Brigade, addressed the situation directly, stating that Matias' surrender was voluntary and facilitated by her boyfriend, Job David, a former rebel, and her mother, Miriam.

"We are witnessing a dangerous trend of misinformation being used to manipulate public perception and further a particular agenda," stated Cabangbang. "Certain groups are deliberately spreading lies and distorting facts to create a narrative that serves their own interests," he stressed.

Cabangbang highlighted that Matias’ decision to surrender was driven by a combination of factors, including her disillusionment with the NPA, the lack of medical support for her heart condition (Dextrocardia), and the hardships she experienced within the organization.

Matias and David were also present during the virtual press conference, confirming her voluntary surrender. Their statements directly contradicted the narratives spread by certain groups, including mainstream media.

"Sa bundok kasi ang hirap ng buhay. I feel guilty because I am in a good situation while she is struggling with the lack of food up there. Sometimes, our food is what animals eat. When someone surrendered last December, I was informed that my letter had reached Fhobie. So, we planned with her mother that once Fhobie contacted her, we would process her surrender. After her medical leave, we did what we needed to do," David explained.

"Ngayon di na ako mag-a-alala sa kanyang kundisyon o magwo-worry na mahulog sya sa bangin. Ngayon, alam ko na malusog na rin sya," he added.

While still processing her experience, Matias expressed both relief and gratitude for being back with her family and in a safe environment.

"Nasa maayos na akong kalagayan. Pinoprocess ko pa rin po pero tanggap ko na dito ako at nakakasama ko na ang pamilya ko. Minsan po kasi lumuluwas sila. Napa-check na rin ako tungkol sa kalagayaan ko. Malusog na ako at naovercome ko na rin yung sakit ko noon at nakakatulong ko sila dito," she shared.

Cabangbang stated that Matias live appearance "is very timely" to show that the reports are not true. "Ang punot dulo lang naman dito ay manghihingi kayo [ng pera]," he pointed out, referring to the groups that have issued statements regarding the Matias case.

He further condemned the tactic of "abduct-surface-donate," where individuals are allegedly abducted, then surfaced for public sympathy and fundraising, often under the guise of human rights advocacy.

"This scheme is a blatant attempt to exploit a sensitive situation for personal gain," he stressed.

Cabangbang also reiterated the AFP's commitment to providing assistance and support to those who surrender, highlighting the support packages offered to Matias and her family.

Additionally, he urged parents to be vigilant about their children’s involvement in youth groups and to reach out to the military for assistance if they have concerns.

Earlier, groups like Anakbayan, the Katipunan ng mga Samahang Magbubukid sa Timog Katagalugan (Kasama-TK), and the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines (ICHRP) issued statements belying the military's claims. These statements, carried by various media outlets, alleged that Matias, a member of a peasant group, was "abducted" and taken to a military camp while on her way to a consultation with farmers.

Cabangbang called on the media to exercise responsibility in reporting and to verify information with credible sources, including the military. "If a report does not include information from the military, it is most likely fake news. We have so many spokespersons from the divisions. They can always call us," he stated.

"We are committed to transparency and working with the media to ensure accurate information is shared," he concluded.

NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Joel M. Sy Egco

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