International Human Rights Day 

Written By: Lloyd Jedrick D. Luna 

      December 10 1984 – the day that the United Nation strengthened the right of every human to stand on their own feet and to fight for their own principles. It was a small step that helps us grasp freedom and not be shackled by invincible jail bars that imprison us for having our own rights. Sadly, many of us choose to become prisoners of that invincible jail rather than fight for a life where we get to make our own decisions. Since then, a new era has started, an era where there's an endless and bloody battle against those who want to trample on our human rights. But they labeled us terrorists who ruined the order of society and oppressed us. Was it wrong that we wanted freedom for ourselves?

      To celebrate International Human Rights Day, I strongly criticize the serious corruption that continues to grow within our country, together with the enablers and silenced witnesses. It also reminds us to maintain and defend the integrity of human rights, and  create a foundation for societies to continuously prosper. 

      Amidst the pandemic, a time when we needed a leader the most, but where were they? We have suffered enough human rights violations under the Duterte (Iron Fist) Administration. He implemented the Anti-Terror Bill to oppress and silence the critics who condemn the culture of impunity. He also implemented a War on Drugs program, which resulted in the deaths of many people due to erratic gunfire.Now, as we face the start of a Marcos-Duterte regime, we recall the terror of the past , especially Martial Law, Red-Tagging, Social Media Trolls, and Disinformation. We are also threatened by the Mandatory Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) under the disguise of discipline and patriotism. Many students want to be heard and are continuously fighting for peaceful education.

      As our country reverts to an autocratic regime, I request for our fellow APECIANS to keep the line and continue to fight back against the increasing oppression towards journalists and media practitioners. We call on our fellow Filipinos to seek justice for the victims of human rights violations. Stay safe, everyone.