Solidarity gathering to end rights violations

On July 19, 2025, victims of human rights violations, their families, and human rights defenders gathered in Quezon City to strengthen their solidarity and support ongoing campaigns to end rights violations against the Filipino people. The activity served not only as a space for healing but also as a reaffirmation of their collective commitment to justice and accountability.

The event featured a screening of Greenbones via Netflix, a critically acclaimed prison drama that explores themes of justice, redemption, and systemic abuse. The film’s portrayal of moral ambiguity and state violence resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom have lived through similar experiences.

Following the screening, a talkback session opened the floor for testimonies. Among those who spoke were Former political prisoners Julieta Gomez and Niezel Velasco. Both were arrested in 2021 under trumped-up charges of murder and illegal possession of firearms and explosives—charges that were later dismissed due to lack of evidence.

Julieta, who has long defended ancestral lands from mining and militarization, emphasized that her arrest was part of a broader campaign to silence Indigenous dissent. Niezel, who had led disaster relief and livelihood programs in Mindanao, echoed this sentiment, describing how judicial harassment continues to be weaponized against advocates like her.

Their stories, shared in the presence of fellow survivors, underscored the urgent need to dismantle mechanisms of repression and uphold the rights of marginalized communities. The gathering concluded with a renewed call to end red-tagging, militarization, and the criminalization of activism.

#StopTheAttacks