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In a dialogue, indigenous peoples and Moro asked Environment Secretary Gina Lopez to shut down destructive large-scale mining.
“I have aready put my life on the line fighting for our rights. Let us return home.”
“The Lumád who were killed there were those who joined the NPA.”
They depict their stories through performances. Using indigenous instruments and their own language, they educate the city-bred about their struggles and aspirations.
“People showed defiance, assertion and grit. And because they have been wounded, they will even be more assertive next time.”
“Mr. Sumalbag and the other victims of the violent dispersal wish not to be approached, interviewed and/or asked for any statements without our presence and assistance as their counsels.”
“When we sit down with the President, we will not only brief him on what actually happened during the dispersal. We will also take that opportunity to explain to him the calls and demands of national minorities.”
At Mendiola Bridge, the same calls were heard: to defend the ancestral lands, pullout soldiers and paramilitary groups in the communities and give justice to slain victims. Only louder this time, and interspersed with "Death to US Imperialism!"
Bulatlat Special Report:
“This Lakbayan demonstrates the unity of national minorities in asserting our right to self-determination,” Malayao said. “ We demand the right to self governance, the freedom to practice our way of life, and the full control of our resources.”
“We see no difference between the paramilitary groups and the Manila police who showed us the same brutality.”
“Sandugo condemns this as a terrorist act by the PNP.”
“Once again, the Armed Forces of the Philippines proved its sheer paranoia."
A peace consultant narrates how revolutionary efforts improved lives and showcased self-determined development in the remotest mountain communities.
Protesters decried the continuing attacks against their leaders and communities, and the injustice for victims of the past administration.
Bulatlat Special Report
It remains to be seen whether the present President Rodrigo Duterte, a known supporter against the killings of indigenous rights activists, will listen to the demands being pushed by indigenous peoples.
"A blood compact united our ancestors way back in history. Now we are united again in one struggle."
"We are glad that the ongoing peace talks is not exclusive to Christians but tackles the issues of the Filipino people, including us, national minorities.”
"This is a historic event for all of us, to see all marginalized and minoritized tribes gather in Manila."
For the first time, the unified ranks of indigenous peoples and Moro bring their calls to the National Capital Region.
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