“The Philippines has its own share of such crimes against domestic workers.” – Migrante International
“This is supposed to be a basic social service to the people. But the government failed to provide it to us. Now, it is the capitalists who are benefiting.”
"The no-build zone policy is outright demolition. The no-build zone policy clearly serves big businesses, not the people."
"Last year, the government deployed two million OFWs and professionals abroad, the biggest in history. So again, how can the DOLE stomach this absurdity?"
“We are expecting that these attacks against the welfare of the urban poor would continue this 2014. But we will continue to push and fight for our rights, for our livelihood and for decent pay.”
“They want our people out of the coastal zones because they prefer big business groups who want to invest in Public-Private Partnership projects that would virtually transform Leyte and Samar coastal areas into export-bane processing zones in Region 8."
2013 was no different for OFWs as they continue to face government neglect. But the year also showed what OFWs could accomplish through their concerted action.
“The contributors you will get to know here all responded to our team’s call on social media to submit pieces for a visual and literary anthology on Haiyan/ Yolanda, proceeds of which will go to community reconstruction efforts.”
“First they tried to get rid of the Philippine Children’s Medical Center. Now they want to get rid of plants and trees. What is next? Pushing for the transfer of government offices like the Philippine Science High School and the Office of the Ombudsman to make way for even more commercial expansion?” – Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate
In Leyte, survivors of Typhoon Yolanda decry the lack of assistance received from the government despite millions of donations, funds allocated for them.
“It would be a double blow for typhoon-ravaged schools if these impending budget cuts push through. The cuts are particularly lethal, as the government will not provide any capital outlay for the said schools. How will they rebuild damaged buildings without a single cent in their infrastructure budget?” – Kabataan Rep. Terry Ridon
“Which government departments, agencies and local government units are receiving funds -- and how much and to which designated bank accounts do these go? What contracts are being awarded and to whom? Is the money being spent on the ground the way it should? Are timely audits happening?”
“Balsa may be the biggest relief caravan we have ever conducted, involving at least three regions and hundreds of volunteers. Over the past week, the mass movement here and abroad have been collecting relief goods, other forms of assistance for the people of Eastern Visayas and Panay.” – Renato Reyes, Bayan
By JANESS ANN J. ELLAO Bulatlat.com MANILA -- A book on the legacy and contribution of Andres Bonifacio in the people’s struggle was launched on Nov. 28, two days before the country commemorate his 150th birth anniversary. “This book is not just for you to post for...
The Aquino government has announced its plans to taper off relief distribution by January 2014.
Before they could start rebuilding their lives, survivors of Typhoon Yolanda have to account for their missing loved ones first. Sadly, the Aquino government made it clear that searching for survivors beneath the rubble is not its priority.
The Truth Cinema Festival is now on its 2nd year in showcasing human rights films in different communities, schools and workplaces. Aside from areas in National Capital Region, included in this year’s leg are schools and peasant communities in Visayas and Mindanao...
“It is the children we are worried about. They cannot bear hunger. Adults can manage but not children.”
While Yolanda survivors arrive in droves in Manila and Cebu, there are those who embark on a journey back to typhoon-ravaged areas to know about the fate of their families and kin. Will they find relief or sorrow when they arrive in their hometown?
RELATED STORY | Relatives of Yolanda victims express worries, anger over slow government response
“We should link arms for typhoon survivors. Let us show our solidarity: let us hold big assemblies, light candles, pray and take action. Let us send a powerful message of unity and hope." – Vencer Crisostomo, Anakbayan
RELATED STORY: Urgent relief and rehab needed in Yolanda-stricken areas, not militarization
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