Migrante vows worldwide protests vs. ‘fascist’ Duterte

Militant migrants' rights group Migrante International will hold protests around the world to oppose President Rodrigo Duterte's supposed attempt to "install himself as a fascist dictator" on Thursday, September 21, the 45th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law by former President Ferdinand Marcos.

"We are gathered today with other sectors because OFWs and families stand against Duterte’s fascism and tyranny," Migrante said in a statement. "We vow to frustrate any and all moves by Duterte to install himself as a fascist dictator like his idol Marcos."

The group said its chapters in Hong Kong, Japan, Qatar, Italy, South Korea, Canada, Australia and the United States have already held simultaneous protests while its chapter in the United Kingdom will hold action on September 24.

Meanwhile, Migrante's chapters in Davao, Cebu, Negros, Laguna, Batangas, Cavite, Rizal, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Baguio will join protest actions with Manila on Thursday.

Migrante's opposition came on the heels of Duterte threatening to declare martial law in case lawlessness and rebellion sweep through the streets during Thursday's mass protests, although officials said this is highly unlikely.

They will be among the various civil groups who will hold protest actions against Duterte's war against illegal drugs, alleged extrajudicial killings, and military rule in Mindanao.

Duterte has declared September 21, 2017 as National Day of Protest.

He said the proclamation was issued "in solidarity with the people's call against all excesses and shortcomings of the government", but warned protesters not to go beyond the laws to avoid military and police force. —Rie Takumi/KBK, GMA News