Baguio artist nabbed for terrorist financing
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Police arrested over the weekend Mike Cabangon, a local artist and labor organizer, at his home in Barangay Irisan here.
According to reports, Cabangon is facing two counts of violation of the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.
He is identified as the regional coordinator of labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno-Cordillera and organizer of the driver’s group PISTON Metro-Baguio. He also fronts the progressive band Ebkas Waya (Speak Free), making him a prominent voice in activism and culture in the highland region.
The Dap-ayan ti Kultura iti Kordilyera, which counts Cabangon’s band among its members, condemned the arrest.
“This is part of systematic repression against activists and cultural workers. Even under state harassment, we will continue fighting for social justice,” the group said.
The Cordillera Human Rights Alliance criticized the arrest, saying activists are forced to deal with harassment instead of spending time with family.
Cabangon was freed after posting bail at the Regional Trial Court here.
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