By Juliane Judilla
Various human rights and multi-sectoral organizations in Panay commemorated the 76th International Human Rights Day on December 10 with a series of protests and programs demanding justice and accountability for victims of state violence.
In Iloilo City, the Panay Alliance Karapatan and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN)-Panay led a demonstration at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol. The groups called for justice for victims of extrajudicial killings, red-tagging, and other human rights violations.
Party-list group Bayan Muna and Samahan ng Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon at Aresto (SELDA)-Panay urged the government to drop what they described as trumped-up charges against activists and human rights workers and to release all political prisoners.
The groups highlighted the recent arrest of Tomas Dominador Jr., a prominent Ilonggo activist, whose detention has been labeled as politically motivated.
Progressive fisherfolk group PAMALAKAYA-Panay also voiced concerns about the militarization of coastal areas, particularly in Northern Iloilo.
“The military presence in our communities has only brought fear and uncertainty to our people,” said PAMALAKAYA spokesperson Melbert Balbon, emphasizing the impact of intensified Civil-Military Operations (CMO) on the safety and livelihoods of rural residents.
Protesters marched through the streets of Iloilo City proper, amplifying their calls for an end to state violence and human rights abuses.
In Roxas City, Capiz, activists gathered at the Roxas Public Plaza to condemn the militarization of urban poor communities and reported surveillance and harassment of youth volunteers and progressive groups.
Peasant women’s organization AMIHAN-Capiz called for the demilitarization of remote peasant areas, where farmers and rural communities face compounded challenges from poverty and natural disasters.
“Instead of aid during times of calamity, the state’s response is militarization,” the group said in a statement.
In Kalibo, Aklan, a forum on human rights and freedom of association was held at the APSTA Center. Kabataan Party-list spokesperson Atty. Renee Co spoke about the increasing threats faced by activists and youth organizers.
“The right to organize is fundamental and must be protected,” Co said.
After the forum, participants marched to Pastrana Park to hold a program reaffirming their commitment to defending human rights.
These protests in Panay are part of a broader national movement marking International Human Rights Day 2024.
Across the country, groups continue to demand justice for victims of state violence, the release of political prisoners, and an end to impunity.
