CHR-6 ‘won’t tolerate’ red-tagging; launches probe

From Panay News (May 1, 2021): CHR-6 ‘won’t tolerate’ red-tagging; launches probe (By Ime Sornito)

ILOILO City – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) slammed anew the red-tagging of members of progressive groups here.

Last week, posters accusing activists of being members of the New People’s Army resurfaced.

“Halin sang una ang CHR nagahambal nga indi dapat or indi nagakaigu (ang red-tagging) kay ti may korte or prosecutors or judicial processes kita,” said Director Jonnie Dabuco of the CHR-6 in an interview with Panay News.

“Indi nga i-convict or pakalainon mo lang ang isa ka tawo without giving him or her the opportunity nga maka-present sang iya side,” he added.


Among those red-tagged were youth leader Lean Porquia, son of slain activist Jory Porquia; Bryan Bosque of Bayan Muna-Panay; lawyers Teofisto Melliza and Joebert Pahilga of the National Union of People’s Lawyers; Lucy Francisco of Gabriela-Panay; Irish Inoceto of Iloilo Pride Team; John Ian Alenciaga of Altermedya Panay; and Maura Abellon of Kadamay-Panay.

The posters described them as “qualified” to avail themselves of the Enhanced Community Livelihood Integration Program (E-CLIP), the government’s reintegration program for surrendering rebels.

“Red-tagging is very dangerous,” Dabuco stressed. “Ini bangod sa nagkalatabo sa mga persons nga previously gin-red-tag tapos eventually may natabo nga assault or murder…luckily iban naka-survive.”

The CHR launched this week an investigation.

“We received complaints, may nagpangayo sang bulig sa amon. Ti, amo ‘na ang response namon,” said Dabuco.

https://www.panaynews.net/chr-6-wont-tolerate-red-tagging-launches-probe/