On the occasion of the 59th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights, the human rights watchdog KARAPATAN today called on the
Filipino people to remain defiant and to assert their rights.
On the occasion of the 59th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights, the human rights watchdog KARAPATAN today called on the
Filipino people to remain defiant and to assert their rights.
"In her six years as head of state, President Gloria
Macapagal-Arroyo has shown no respect to human rights," said Marie
Hilao-Enriquez, secretary general of the Alliance for the Advancement
of People’s Rights (KARAPATAN). "The civil, political, economic and
social right of every Filipino is being violated by this dangerous,
fascist regime through Arroyo’s continued implementation of the
counterinsurgency program Oplan Bantay Laya II, the Anti-Terror Law and
other draconian measures."
KARAPATAN documentation shows that from January 2001 up to
October 31 this year, there are a total of 887 victims of extrajudicial
killings, and 185 victims of enforced disappearances. Enriquez notes
that among these cases, not a single perpetrator had been convicted and
brought to jail.
"We have not only seen the occurrence of killings and the
disappearances increase, but other human rights violations such as the
recent handcuffing of media men at the Manila Peninsula during the
Trillanes stand-off against the government and the imposition of a
curfew after that event." Enriquez stated. "The Arroyo Government is
capable of doing what it wants done, especially if it aims to
continually perpetuate itself in power. Truly, this administration
adheres to a climate of impunity on human rights violations and terror."
In the light of this situation, where public discontent and action is
countered with repression, the human rights group urges the Filipino
people to remain vigilant and bravely defy any effort by the Arroyo
regime to repress their human rights.
"We cannot allow this government to trample on our dignity as Filipinos
and human beings. We must assert our rights and our collective action
will defeat this fascist Arroyo regime." Enriquez concluded. ###