Germany's envoy in Manila on Saturday, Sept. 21, encouraged the public to "honor those who suffered" under Martial Law as the country commemorated the 52nd year since former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr.'s imposition of the military rule.
German Ambassador Andreas Pfaffernoschke said that the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and democracy during this dark period in history are being remembered as the country marked this month the imposition of Martial Law in the Philippines.
"Let us honor the memory of those who suffered under Martial Law and work together to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again," Pfaffernoschke said.
The envoy said that the distortion of history "can pave the way for the return of authoritarianism and the erosion of human rights."
So it is "through a clear understanding of our past that we can build a better future," he added.
"By upholding historical accuracy and promoting human rights, we can create a more just and equitable world for all," Pfaffernoschke said.
On Sept. 23, 1972, former president Marcos, father of current President Marcos, declared the imposition of Martial Law in the country in a proclamation dated Sept. 21, which eventually led to abuse of power of those in position and the violation of human rights, including imprisonment, torture and killings.
That marked the beginning of a 14-year period of one man rule that lasted until Marcos' exile from the country in 1986.