Remembering the Declaration of Martial Law 2023
September 21, 2023
As the nation marks the 51st anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law—a dark chapter in Philippine history—we find ourselves grappling once again with an issue echoing the past: the show of might and brute force by State actors against the civilian population.
The controversy surrounding the truth about the alleged abduction of environmental activists Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano by security forces creates a public spectacle reminiscent of a movie. Yet, at the same time, it serves as a poignant reminder of how crucial the truth is for meaningful and productive public discourse.
In a press conference by the NTF-ELCAC, Tamano and Castro declared that they were forcibly abducted by military forces and made to sign an affidavit under duress, attesting that they voluntarily surrendered as members of an underground organization. Their statements contradicted the initial narrative presented by the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army, who claimed that Tamano and Castro willingly surrendered to the military and even pleaded to be hidden from their "comrades." In response to Castro and Tamano, the NTF-ELCAC stood by the statements of the PNP and the Philippine Army, putting the two environmental activists at risk of being accused of perjury.
The discrepancies in the reports and narratives fuel disinformation. Bad actors exploit the public's confusion and desire to determine who is telling the truth. This unfortunate situation serves no one and defeats us all as a nation. It erodes the credibility of the security forces, whose duty is to protect the civilian population. It sends a chilling effect throughout civil society and among social activists, who are meant to hold the powerful accountable. Ultimately, it undermines the rule of law and diminishes public confidence in democratic institutions, which bind together this society.
The importance of a balanced and impartial investigation that adheres to due process and human rights cannot be overstated. MAD urges the authorities to investigate and surface the truth about the alleged abduction of Castro and Tamano. This is a litmus test for the Government’s promise to protect and serve the public, and to uphold justice, democracy and the rule of law.
