The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) once again engages in disinformation by claiming before the 77th Session of the UN Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (CESCR) that it “champions human rights, security, and peace.” Everything it has done since its creation under Executive Order No. 70, s. 2017 has been the exact opposite.
NUPL | Feb 23, 2025
The question now is: Will the FATF take responsibility for the harm its standards have enabled, or will it continue to turn a blind eye?
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.
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!
