Development workers, and indigenous peoples from the Cordillera region are calling for an investigation on the intensifying human rights violations in Northern Luzon that have resulted in the displacement of indigenous peoples communities.
In this list, Bulatlat highlights women migrant rights activists who rose to the challenge of standing behind beleaguered Filipino migrant workers and the families they left behind.
Progressive group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) denounced the upcoming Balikatan exercises called “Salaknib” between the Philippines and the United States as it can provoke regional geopolitical tension and violate the country’s sovereignty.
“These women and all who came before them have had to claw their way out of the quagmire of limitations imposed on women—especially poor women—in a feudal-patriarchal society, and asserted their rightful place in the struggle for rights and justice. Only for the state to shove them back into a box, literally and figuratively.”
“Dean Luis was and is a pillar of Philippine journalism, credited with advancing the ideals of pro-people journalism both as a respected member of the academe and through the alternative media that he helped to organize in the Philippines.”
“In the end, we call for the resumption of peace talks, an end to the militarization in the countryside, and hold the perpetrators accountable.”
“It is unacceptable that Camoral has been waiting for more than two years for a fair trial. This situation mirrors the ‘working’ justice system in the Philippines, where delays, postponements, and excuses have become the norm.”
“We condemn the indiscriminate bombings and shellings and the atmosphere of terror brought about by the continuing military combat operations.”
For now, jeepneys have returned to the streets of the Philippine capital. But all eyes are still on how the Marcos Jr. administration will proceed from the dialogue held with transport leaders.
Erwiana’s story was among the many stories of domestic workers who, despite the impact of abuse on her – physically and emotionally, have risen up again and worked for the welfare of fellow migrant workers.
“We face the same problem. We don’t want women in this situation. We had to help each other because together we are stronger.”