Students, activists, and faculty members of the University of the Philippines Cebu Campus held a candle-lighting and cultural tribute at the UP Cebu entrance gate on Gorordo Avenue, Barangay Lahug, Cebu City on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
Tribute to Victims
The event was dedicated to Vince Francis 'Ding' Dingding and five other individuals who lost their lives during an encounter between the military and suspected rebels in Cauayan, Negros Occidental on May 16, 2026.
As of now, Dingding's body has not yet been released to his family. The family is awaiting police procedures before they can claim the remains. Dingding was a resident of Barangay Capitol Site, Cebu City.
Family Appeals for Assistance
In a letter dated May 18, Dingding's parents stated that they are unable to claim their son's body, especially since his mother is suffering from an illness. They have entrusted the process to their barangay captain, Kelly Quijada, to facilitate the return of the body to Cebu.
The candle-lighting ceremony was accompanied by cultural performances, as the community expressed solidarity and called for justice for the victims.
