UP students stand up for climate justice, human rights during the 2019 Lantern Parade

The University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman just held its annual Lantern Parade, and true to form, it went beyond showcasing the creativity and resourcefulness of its students.

Members of the UP community issued calls to action on various issues while others staged protests during the festivities held on campus.

This year's event shone a light on the pressing need to address human rights violations, climate change, the West Philippine Sea dispute, environmental degradation and the muzzling of press freedom.

Student organizations such as STAND UP protested against several policies of the current administration, while UP Babaylan pushed to end to all forms of violence.

The event also saw the participation of Bakwit Lumad students who were part of the Save Our Schools Network. The students, who called for climate justice and respect for human rights, performed a traditional dance during the program proper. 

According to the school, the Lantern Parade tradition evolved into an event that reflected the people and milieu of its time as it depicted the changing socio-political landscape of the University and the country.

—JCB, GMA News