04/27/2026
Malaya Union City Chapter deeply mourns the loss of long-time human rights defender and beloved friend, Lyle Prijoles, along with the massacre of 18 others and displacement of over 650 in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental. We vehemently condemn the continued fascist and senseless attacks – indiscriminate firing and strafing on civilians – by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on April 19th and 20th, 2026. The Philippine Government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are vilifying the efforts of these human rights defenders, land defenders, researchers, and community advocates as “terrorists.” The 19 massacred were serving the people by learning from the communities directly affected by the US-backed war of aggression and intense militarization in Negros, a region facing years of state violence since Marcos Sr.’s Martial Law and up to now de facto martial law perpetuated under Marcos Jr.’s regime.
Lyle was a beloved friend of the Filipino-American community in Union City, San Francisco, and across the East Bay. After moving from San Diego, CA to attend San Francisco State University to study journalism, he was deeply immersed in community spaces such as arts, education, cultural, music, historical, and so much more. His deep passion for his community and culture led him to advocate for better conditions for Filipinos, both here and in the Philippines. After he graduated, he continued his work all over the Bay Area and the country. He was a self-proclaimed “nerd” and arduous Star Wars fan, a teacher and mentor to many, a kind soul, partner, brother, uncle, friend, son, and human rights advocate.
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