Groups to march together for human rights, national sovereignty on Independence Day

MANILA, Philippines — Various groups will raise issues on national sovereignty, human rights, women’s rights and democracy as they stage a rally during the Independence Day celebration on June 12.

Various sectors such as women, youth peasants, indigenous peoples, human rights advocates, among others are expected to participate in the march dubbed as “HINDIpendence Day.”

“The gathering aims to show our collective defense of the Philippine sovereignty, social justice and human rights, democratic governance and women’s rights at this crucial time where they ate under attack by the very government tasked to uphold them,” the groups said.

The activity will denounce the government’s soft stance in the South China Sea dispute, the continued extrajudicial killings, the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion law, the attacks on judicial independence and President Rodrigo Duterte’s act of kissing a married Filipina in South Korea.

“Amid the growing crisis of governance and the burning issues facing our nation, we call on all Filipinos to gather on June 12 and show our commitment to the fight for freedom, justice and democracy,” the groups said.

They added: “We cannot sit [quietly] in the face of such an abusive government. With the spirit and will shown by our ancestors, our heroes, let our voices ring this Independence Day for true love of country and fealty to democracy.”

The groups enjoined the public to participate in the #BabaeAko Freedom March from 3 to 4 p.m. and the HINDIpendence Day Rally from 4 to 7 p.m.

Among the participants are Movement Against Tyranny, #BabaeAko, Voices of Women for Justice and Peace, Gabriela and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan.