#NeverAgain: Rights group calls for justice at 52nd Martial Law commemoration

Hundreds of individuals gathered to commemorate the 52nd anniversary of Martial Law in an event called “Batas Militar? Parang Pamilyar!” on September 21 at Bantayog ng mga Bayani in Quezon City.

Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) led the commemoration where victims and survivors shared their poignant stories, while musicians performed to honor the occasion.

The event included a wreath-laying and candle-lighting ceremony to remember those lost.

PAHRA Secretary-General Egay Cabalitan emphasized the lasting impact of the Marcos dictatorship, saying it “left a trail of human rights violations that continues to haunt the nation”.

“In this solemn remembrance, we honor the memory of the Desaparecidos—those who were forcibly taken, never to be seen again,” he said.

Cabalitan further urged vigilance against ongoing human rights abuses. 

“Never again is not just a slogan; it is a solemn commitment we must uphold. Our call for justice is for all victims of human rights abuses, past and present,” Cabalitan added.

As of September 21, 2024, the Families of Victims of Involuntary Disappearance has documented over 40 cases of enforced disappearances under the present administration led by the dictator’s son and his namesake, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr..

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