Statement of condemnation of extrajudicial killings in the Philippines

Statement of condemnation of extrajudicial killings in the Philippines

6th June 2006

We at Indigenous Peoples Links (PIPLinks) are gravely concerned, as are many around the world, by the mounting number of cases of assassination and terrorizing of legitimate legal opponents of policies of your government. We are particularly concerned at the increasing victimization of environmentalists and environment defenders. The environmental crisis in the Philippines is grave and growing.

The future of the country depends on the growing movement of environmental defenders and those prepared to act and speak out to defend the environment. That such people are being subjected to extra-udicial killings, threats, vilification and legal harassment while the dubious actions of mining and logging companies is condoned and facilitated by such repression, is a bloody stain upon the reputation of the Philippines and of the current administration.

We endorse the calls of Kalikasan, Amnesty International and others for an immediate end to extrajudicial killings, swift and effective action to investigate such crimes and the prosecution of perpetrators. We call for the withdrawal and investigation of military units and commanders from the areas most associated with extrajudicial killings. We call for an end to intimidation, threats and character assassination campaigns against Human rights and environmental defenders and for the protection of freedom of speech and the right to dissent.

Geoff Nettleton
Coordinator
Indigenous Peoples Links (PIPLinks)