Protesters call for release of Frenchie Mae Cumpio, others

Activist groups on Wednesday marched to the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Manila City to call for the release of journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio and other activists who were arrested almost six years ago, according to Bayan Muna.

The protesters carried signs calling for the dismissal of the cases against Cumpio and the others, as well as the defense of press freedom.

They also clamored for the release of all political prisoners.

Cumpio and the others were arrested in a police raid in Tacloban City in February 2020 over alleged illegal possession of firearms and for supposedly being members of the New People's Army.

United Nations Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Opinion and Expression Irene Khan in 2024 has expressed her concern to the Philippine government over the length of Cumpio's case.

GMA News Online has requested comment from the DOJ regarding the protesters' call, but it has yet to respond as of posting time. — VDV, GMA Integrated News