This war of suppression, directed at people who resist what government armed forces call ‘vital installations’ and ‘flagship projects,’ has always been the biggest investment guarantee that the Philippine government grants to extractive and pollutive large-scale industries.
Soldiers’ presence and bomber planes flying at midnight over the communities of Lianga town drove some 2,000 villagers packing before dawn today.
“We want Gen. Dela Rosa’s commitment in making sure that the Lumad can go home safely by arresting Calpet Egua, Loloy Tejero, Bobby Tejero, Margarito Layno and 32 other AFP goons who killed our leaders.”
““We will take back our lands! We will get justice.”
“Kahit ilang beses kaming magbakwit, di kami titigil (No matter how many times we are displaced, we will not stop).”
“Curfew hours were strictly imposed and the movements of the locals were closely monitored and controlled…They were not even allowed to work in their farms.”
With President Duterte’s declaration of a unilateral ceasefire, Mindanao ‘bakwets’ hope soldiers will leave their communities and they can finally go home.
“It is one step, but government should also pull out soldiers, hold human rights violators accountable, and allow evacuees to go home and reestablish their livelihood, schools and communities.”
BULATLAT SPECIAL REPORT:
“This is not just seeking sanctuary, but also our protest, to demand respect for us indigenous people, not just in Mindanao, but the whole country.”
BULATLAT SPECIAL REPORT:
Like their students, the young teachers of Alcadev are just as afraid and traumatized. But the tragedy was the crucible that strengthened their resolve to continue to serve and teach the Lumad youth.
“Is the CHR serious with its intention to get to the roots of the problems of the Lumad evacuees?”