Bantayog ng mga Bayani Foundation considers the declaration of martial law and suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in Mindanao a wrong solution to the curent crisis in Marawi City.
We draw lessons from our country's past experience of martial law and on the wisdom of our heroes and martyrs who fought against Marcos’ authoritarian regime.
The Duterte government wants to apply to problems besetting Mindanao – and threatens to apply on the rest of the country – a military solution that will create even bigger problems, leading to more human rights abuses, communities disrupted, and Filipino lives needlessly lost.
History has shown us that no true peace and order can be achieved through such brutal means. On the contrary, a military solution will sow seeds of discontent and spread violence instead of containing them.
We call on Filipinos to stay informed and vigilant and to offer assistance to communities disrupted by the crisis.
Bantayog calls on government to immediately lift martial law and the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in Mindanao. We must not forget the lessons of the past. NEVER AGAIN.
Board of Trustees
Bantayog ng mga Bayani Foundation, Inc.
May 29, 2017
