Progressive groups create EJK memorial ahead of Human Rights Day

In anticipation of International Human Rights Day on December 10, several progressive groups on Sunday set up a memorial for extrajudicial killing victims at the Ecumenical Center of the National Council of Churches of the Philippines in Quezon City.

Human rights groups Hustisya and Rise Up for Life and for Rights, among others, participated in the event.

"We remember the victims of human rights violations under this government and, with the families of those killed, reiterate our commitment to pursue justice and accountability," Hustisya chairperson Evan Hernandez said during the event.

“This activity, this memorial, is a symbol of our commitment to keep the fire and passion aflame; it is a statement addressed to this government that as we grieve for our loved ones, we will continue to fight to bring them justice,” he added.

According to Karapatan, 293 cases of extrajudicial killings related to the government's counterinsurgency program had been recorded as of November.

In October, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-6, the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, Joint Task Force-Negros, and Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office raided the offices of militant groups Kilusang Mayo Uno, Gabriela Negros Center, and Negros Federation of Sugar Workers.

PNP police officers also arrested three activists from the office of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan in Tondo, Manila. — Joviland Ritas/DVM, GMA News