“This is a proof the correctness of our collective fight against reclamation, alongside the fisherfolk communities— a sign for us to continue our struggle,” Jonila Castro said
“There is no legal basis to hold them any second longer and they should be freed forthwith and if restrained illegally, can walk away from their custodians.”
“Ang totoo po ay dinukot kami ng militar. Napilitan din kami na sumurender dahil pinagbantaan ang buhay namin. Iyon po ang totoo,” Castro said. (The truth is, we were abducted by the military. We were forced to surrender because they threatened our lives. That is the truth.)
Jpeg Garcia’s advocacy for peace based on social justice made him a target of state forces, his fellow human rights defenders in the Southern Tagalog region said.