Manila, April 30 -- Malacanang on Thursday extended condolences to the families of individuals killed in a legitimate military operation in Toboso, Negros Occidental, and backs a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident.

This comes after ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights raised concerns over the deaths of 19 civilians, which they claimed may constitute violations of international humanitarian law.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said it is important to allow due process and proper investigation before drawing conclusions on accountability.

"Maganda naman po talaga na mayroong mga ahensiya na tumitingin at nangangalaga ng karapatang pantao (It is good that there are agencies that monitor and protect human rights),...