Nanay Mely related that when she first learned about what happened to Hazel, she did not know what to do. A reporter from a television network went to their house in Palawan and interviewed her. She asked for the reporter’s help and the latter told her to contact GABRIELA.
Nanay Mely said that the Philippine consulate asked Hazel to leave Japan on June 12. Her visa would have expired in three days. ”Iniyakan niya pa bago ibigay ang passport niya.” (She begged and cried before they gave her her passport.) A Filipino priest sponsored the extension of her visa.
Determined
Nanay Mely said that she asked Hazel about her plans. “Hindi siya makasagot. Hindi niya pa raw alam. Ang alam niya lang ngayon, lalaban siya, manalo o matalo, lalaban siya.” (She could not answer. She said she doesn’t know yet. All she knows right now is that she will fight, no matter if she would win or lose, she will fight.)
Nanay Mely said, ”Tinanong ko siya kung natatakot siya? Minsan daw pero wala raw mangyayari kung matatakot siya. Sabi niya, Mama, matapang na ako.” (I asked her if she is afraid. Sometimes, she said, but added that nothing will happen if she will be afraid. She told me, ’Mama, I have become brave.’”)
Nanay Mely said she would have wanted to take Hazel home with her. ”Ayoko na siyang mawalay sa akin.Pero sabi ko, ikaw ang masusunod. Habang lumalaban ka, gagawa ako ng paraan para matulungan ka.” (I don’t want her to be away from me. But I told her, ’I will respect your decision. While you are fighting, I will do everything to help you.) (Bulatlat.com)
