Illegal Arrest and Excessive Force Used on Labor Day Protesters in the Philippines
Press Release
May 4, 2024
Yesterday, a peaceful protest was held by human rights groups and mass organizations on Roxas Avenue, near the United States Embassy, to express opposition to US imperialist aggression affecting the Philippines. However, the protest turned violent as the Philippine National Police used excessive force to disperse the demonstrators, with six individuals illegally detained. Even without provocations, the police and Bureau of Fire Protection employed water cannons.
Sr. Patricia Fox emphasized the significance of protesting against ongoing imperialist aggression and the lack of respect for Philippine sovereignty. She highlighted the continuous harassment of Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea and the alarming use of water cannons by the Chinese Coast Guards to target their boats. Sr. Fox also raised concerns about the government’s inaction and mere lip service regarding China’s aggression, while permitting American soldiers to enter the country under the pretext of joint military operations with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, exemplified by the Balikatan Exercises and other lopsided US-RP treaties.
Sr. Patricia Fox added, “On Labor Day, the people are calling for higher wages, humane working condition, and standing up against charter change. These demands specifically aim to address the challenges faced by workers. Meanwhile, the state focuses on the amendment of the constitution to serve the interests of the US, which seeks complete control over our social services, exploitation of our labor force for maximum profit, the plundering of our raw materials, and undermining of our sovereignty.” In addition, numerous sectors join in condemnation of the genocide perpetrated by the US and Israel in Gaza, Palestine. The death toll has tragically reached nearly 34,600 as the Biden administration and Israel’s regime persist in their relentless assault on the beleaguered Gaza.
The Asia Pacific Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines strongly condemns the arrest of six individuals who were injured during a violent dispersal conducted by the Manila Police District. This alarming incident raises serious concerns about the police force’s allegiance to foreign entities instead of prioritizing the well-being of the Filipino people. We urgently call for a thorough investigation into the actions of the Manila Police District, particularly regarding their use of excessive force and unlawful arrests. We demand that the Marcos government prioritize the needs of the Filipino people over the interests of the United States.
#ReleaseEmba6
For media inquiries, please contact:
Sr. Patricia Fox
Reference: Sr. Patricia Fox APCHRP Spokesperson
Phone: 0423 233 152
Email: apchrp2019@gmail.com
