AS WE mark the 51st anniversary of the somber chapter in our country’s history known as Martial Law, “Tindig Pilipinas” emerges from the shadows to underscore the urgent necessity of fully implementing a law designed to recognize and remember the profound human rights abuses that transpired during that dark era. In a recent press conference, the group passionately articulated the pressing need for the comprehensive realization of the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013, also referred to as Republic Act (RA) Number 10368.
The significance of this law lies not only in its intent to pay homage to the “heroism and sacrifices of all Filipinos who were victims of summary execution, torture, enforced or involuntary disappearance, and other gross human rights violations” during the regime of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., but also in its potential to rectify the enduring injustices committed during that dark period. RA 10368 was signed into law by the late former President Benigno Simeon Aquino III on Jan. 28, 2013, symbolizing a critical milestone in the quest to acknowledge the egregious crimes perpetuated under Martial Law.
However, “Tindig Pilipinas” aptly points out that a decade after its enactment, the law has fallen short of delivering complete justice to many victims and their bereaved families. Compensation for the wrongs suffered under the repressive regime remains elusive for countless individuals, leaving wounds that continue to fester.
One of the group’s most compelling calls was a plea for unity, declaring, “It’s an arduous battle when only a few voices are heard. That’s why our appeal is not solely directed at the authorities but at every Filipino willing to stand up.”
This plea resonates with the very essence of democracy, where the responsibility for upholding justice and human rights rests not only with those in power but also with the vigilant and active citizens.
In accordance with RA 10368, victims of torture and other grave human rights abuses, along with their families, are entitled to receive compensation, whether monetary or non-monetary, through the Human Rights Victims Claims Board. Nonetheless, the disheartening truth remains that out of the estimated 107,240 individuals who suffered human rights violations during Martial Law, only slightly over 11,000 have received payment through this law. This glaring inequity underscores the urgent need to expedite the process of compensating victims and their families, as the window of opportunity to provide them with justice is rapidly closing.
The 51st anniversary of Martial Law serves as a poignant reminder of the imperative to confront the past, acknowledge the suffering of countless Filipinos, and actively engage in the healing process that continues to affect our nation. It is incumbent upon the government, civil society, and every conscientious citizen to ensure that the commitments outlined in RA 10368 are steadfastly upheld. Justice delayed is justice denied, and as we contemplate this solemn anniversary, it is our shared duty to recommit ourselves to the principles of truth, justice, and accountability. Only by doing so can we genuinely honor the memory of those who suffered under Martial Law and labor towards a brighter, more equitable future for the Philippines.
