Bayan Negros is set to hold a protest in Bacolod City on Saturday, Sept. 21, to mark the Escalante Massacre and the 52nd anniversary of the declaration of Martial.
A march will start at the Rizal Park at 2 p.m. for a rally at the Halandumon Tower, a Bayan press release said.
“More than just a commemoration of the dark days of martial law, the protest-march aims to hold the current Marcos and Duterte administrations accountable for the escalating economic crisis, human rights violations, and pervasive corruption affecting Negrosanons and the broader Filipino people” Bayan Negros said.
The protest will honor the legacy of the anti-dictatorship struggle and emphasize the importance of collective action for democratic reforms, it said.
Meanwhile, a One Negros Ecumenical Council (ONEC) statement said the bloody Escalante massacre, and the commemoration of Martial Law are “reminders of the flames of injustice that have reignited across our land”.
”As Church leaders, we must remember our historical role in the anti-dictatorship struggle in Negros Island, where we stood alongside our communities during times of oppression,” it added.
“We call upon all people of faith to unite in holding Marcos and Duterte accountable for their actions. May we be guided by courage and righteousness as we strive to dismantle the chain of oppression and build a future rooted in truth, justice, and peace for all,” it said.
ONEC is chaired by San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza.*