MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / Jan. 24, 2012) – A Filipina lawmaker called on President Benigno Aquino III to “decisively” lead the campaign to end impunity, killings and human rights violations in the country.
“It is the absence of action and political will in concretely addressing human rights violations that make the Aquino government just as accountable. Until such time that known human rights violators are arrested, cases are resolved and counter-insurgency operations are overturned, the Aquino government, just like its predecessor, will remain in the international human rights gallery of shame,” Rep. Luz Ilagan, of the Gabriela Women’s Party Representative, said in a statement sent to the Mindanao Examiner.
She said international human rights groups slammed the Aquino government for its failure in ending impunity for human rights abuses.
“One year into the killing of broadcaster and environmentalist, Gerry Ortega, and two years two months into the Ampatuan massacre, we have yet to see the so-called masterminds apprehended. Retired Army Gen. Jovito Palparan remains free and cases of human rights violations filed against former President Arroyo have yet to see progress in courts. The culture of impunity remains and killings will continue as perpetrators are emboldened by government inaction,” Ilagan said.
Palparan is being hunted by authorities after he was accused of murdering political activists during his reign as military commander in the Philippines
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