Calls to End Red-Tagging in the Visayas
ILOILO CITY—Community leaders and human rights advocates have urged elected officials in the Visayas to take stronger action against the persistent issue of red-tagging. This practice, which involves labeling individuals or groups as communists or terrorists without evidence, continues to threaten activists and vulnerable communities.
Recent reports indicate that despite changes in national leadership, red-tagging remains a serious problem in the region. The issue has been highlighted by local experts who emphasize the urgent need for newly elected and reelected officials to confront this challenge effectively.
Ongoing Impact of Red-Tagging on Activists
According to sources familiar with the matter, red-tagging by government figures has not diminished under the current administration. Instead, several cases have surfaced involving community leaders and environmental advocates who have been unjustly accused.
One notable example involves an LGBTQ leader who was forced to seek asylum abroad after being red-tagged by former government officials. “She had to seek asylum abroad because she no longer felt safe here,” community advocates confirmed. This case highlights the personal risks faced by activists under such accusations.
University Communities Also Targeted
Reports indicate that a state university in Iloilo has also experienced red-tagging, further demonstrating how this practice affects not only individuals but entire institutions. Environmentalists in the Visayas have similarly been targeted, raising concerns about the shrinking space for advocacy work.
Local experts stress that addressing red-tagging is crucial for protecting human rights and promoting democratic participation in the region. They call on Visayas officials to develop clear policies that prevent such accusations and ensure the safety of activists.
Advocating for Accountability and Protection
Efforts to eliminate red-tagging require cooperation from both local government units and national agencies. Community leaders urge officials to listen to the voices of those affected and to implement measures that foster trust and transparency.
With elections bringing new faces to leadership, there is hope that a renewed commitment to human rights will emerge. Ending red-tagging can create a safer environment where activists can work without fear of persecution or harassment.
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