Both the FATF and the Philippine government must not only reverse course but commit to ensuring that AML/CFT measures are never again weaponized to erode democratic space, silence dissent, or punish those who fight for justice and empowerment—whether in the Philippines or anywhere in the world.
NUPL | Feb 19, 2025
This victory is not just for the Makabayan candidates but for all Filipinos who uphold fundamental freedoms.
“This is just one of many, but it is a reminder that we must continue resisting the criminalization of activism and standing up for the rights of the urban poor and the marginalized.”
The NUPL calls on the Filipino people to remain vigilant and engaged throughout this process. Transparency and justice are not gifts handed down by those in power—they must be fought for and demanded.
In its ruling, the Court found that the prosecution failed to establish an unbroken chain of custody for the allegedly confiscated firearms and explosives, describing the “irregularities as clear as daylight.”
The NUPL strongly supports this case and the broader campaign of Bayan Muna to uphold transparency and public accountability. At a time when ordinary Filipinos are struggling with poverty and inadequate public services, public funds must be used for genuine development, not for opaque and discretionary spending.
The international legal and human rights community is deeply concerned by prosecuting authorities’ recent criminal investigation and lawsuit against the Istanbul Bar Association, particularly its President, İbrahim Kaboğlu, and the executive board.
Your dedication continues to inspire people’s lawyers and human rights defenders to stand their ground and carry on the fight!
Cong. Lagman’s impact extended into the legislative arena where he consistently championed measures that defended the marginalized and upheld human dignity. His authorship and advocacy of the Human Rights Defenders Bill exemplified his recognition of the critical role played by human rights defenders and his determination to protect them from harassment.
Speeches filled with rhetoric about the Constitution and the rule of law are not enough. If this administration is sincere about justice reaching the margins, it must demonstrate that sincerity by ceasing the systematic harassment of human rights defenders, ending the red-tagging of lawyers and activists, and addressing the socio-economic issues that continue to oppress the underprivileged. Without these actions, the President’s words will remain little more than political theater, far removed from the reality of the people he claims to serve.
