Various militant groups came together on Monday reiterating their call for the release of seven activists, collectively known as the “Human Rights Day 7,” including other political prisoners.
The HRD 7 were arrested on Human Rights Day last December 10 for illegal possession of firearms and explosives, which they claimed were merely planted by police.
Rallyists from Kilusang Mayo Uno, Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, and Pamalakaya, among other groups, gathered at the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Quezon City to hold the “Global Day of Action” protest.
Joining them were the families of detained labor organizers Dennise Velasco, Rodrigo Esparago, Romina Astudillo, Mark Ryan Cruz, Joel Demate, Jaymie Gregorio, and journalist Lady Ann Salem of the Manila Today.
In photos from the militant groups, protesters can be seen holding placards and paper lanterns during the rally.
“Our demand to free the HR Day 7 is addressed to the broad people who aspire a free and democratic country,” Anakpawis leader Ariel Casilao said in a statement.
“We are fully aware that the arrests are part of Duterte’s systematic attack or political persecution of activists and he will never intentionally release political prisoners, unless a huge mass movement pressing him,” he added.
KMU chairperson Elmer “Ka Bong” Labog condemned the recent spate of arrests of union organizers and activists.
“We should hold accountable the ultimate perpetrator of the mass violation of right to liberty and safety, freedom of expression and all basic rights that should be enjoyed in a supposedly democratic society,” they said.