CEBU CITY – Various cause-oriented groups urged the government to protect human rights and find solutions to problems currently besetting the country during the commemoration of the 159th birth anniversary of revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio on Wednesday, Nov. 30.
At least 100 members held separate rallies in uptown Fuente Osmeña Rotunda, Freedom Park in Barangay Ermita, and Plaza Independencia.
Among those who took part in the simultaneous rallies were Anakbayan-Cebu, Bayan Muna, National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers, Kabataan, and Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa.
Denwhil Cañete, vice chairman of Anakbayan-Cebu, said their activity was attended by the youth and women sector calling for salary increase and lower prices of basic commodities.
Cañete said holding the rallies on Bonifacio Day was significant. “This is significant especially for the youth who really fight for the welfare of the nation being the hope of the nation. We look up to Bonifacio because of his revolutionary courage that gave his people the freedom,” said Cañete.
The rallies started around 10 a.m. and ended shortly before noon.
Police said the rallyists were given enough time to express their sentiments.
The rallies ended peacefully, said Lt. Col. Wilbert Parilla, deputy city director for administration of the Cebu City Police Office.
“Ever since, activities like this in Cebu are held peacefully. We are also thankful that those who participated the rallies abide by the rules,” said Parilla.
Bonifacio, also known as “The Father of Philippine Revolution, ” is considered a national hero. He and his brother Procopio were executed on May 10, 1897 in Maragondon, Cavite.