His Excellency José S. Brillantes Ambassador for the Republic of the Philippines (via email) Your Excellency: Thanks for giving me time to address you. Enthu Kwut hwum qun tuni tsun utl' Xwul'qw'se'lu - I am Kwut hwum qun from Xwul'qw'se'lu. My name is Matthew Louie from Cowichan Tribes in BC, Canada. I am writting to you regarding an Indigenous brother who has gone missing. My complete respect for the Constitution and Soverignty of the Philippines Government and its Citizens. I am very concerned that James Balao has not been seen since 17 September and may have been subjected to forced disappearance by the security forces;I call on the authorities to order a prompt and thorough investigation, publish the results and bring those responsible to justice; I call on the authorities to ensure that all cases of forced disappearance are investigated promptly, impartially and effectively; I call on the government of the Philippines to create an independent body to monitor these investigations. Please help the members of Indigneous communities here in Canada know how one of our Indigenous brothers in the Philippines is doing with respect to his health and well-being. Huy ch q'u - Thank you for your time and attention. Regards,Kwut hwum qun - Matthew Louie Cowichan, BC |
 If by chance you were there when it happened I wish you did not shut your eyes as you would when lightning strikes I would want you to remember how he looked How he reached out in silent horror for you to Memorize details of the moment Because he knew it would come to this Searching is a giant question mark That hooks the nerves and curses the dark and unknown It cannot be that he remains just a name With a fact sheet attached He has to be somewhere breathing reaching For the chance to be with us again. |
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Letter from Matthew Louieposted Oct 10, 2008 9:15 AM by Diego Maranan [ updated Oct 10, 2008 11:27 AM ] |