We, the Church-People Workers Solidarity (CWS) strongly condemn the “massacre” of 14 people, mostly farmers in an alleged anti-criminality campaign in Negros Oriental led by Oplan Sauron. This highly coordinated military and police operation targeted unarmed civilians belonging to legitimate peasant groups and farmers associations whom the military deviously tagged as armed rebels, members or sympathizers of the NPA. We hold the Duterte administration and authorities accountable for this offensive attack against our farmers, and for all the victims of state-perpetrated violence.
Farm workers who comprise about a fifth of our population remain mired in poverty, some are even dying of starvation. It is an appalling and forlorn truth that those who work hard with their sweat and blood to produce food for the nation have nothing to provide for themselves and their families. They are forced by deprivation to eat the crumbs that fall from the tables of the landlords and the oligarchs for subsistence. Even more ineffable reality is that instead of mercy and compassion, they received bullets from authorities who are expected to protect them. With so much arrogance, greed and indifference, unjust social structures and atrocities will continue to prevail in our society.
We extend our sympathy and prayers for the bereaved families of the victims. With them, we cry out and demand for justice for the victims of the killings perpetrated by the police and military in Negros. Let us unite and amplify our call for Truth, Justice and Peace. Let us not allow the authorities to trample on their rights with impunity. Stop de facto martial rule in Negros Island! ####
