Thousands of Filipinos mark the first International Human Rights Day under the Marcos Jr regime with protests. Thousands of rallyists marched on December 10 from Liwasang Bonifacio to Mendiola in Manila to criticize and hold responsible Marcos Jr and state armed forces for their many human rights violations.

Led by Karapatan and the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, activities were held before and on December 10 in many parts of Metro Manila. Protests and gatherings were also held in the cities of Baguio, Naga, Legazpi, Sorsogon, Kalibo, Roxas, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Davao. Similar activities were held in Ilocos Sur at Ilocos Norte, La Union, Kalinga, and Mt. Province. Filipino communities in United States, Canada, Europe, Hongkong and Australia also gathered.

According to Karapatan, the culture of impunity continues to be pervade under Marcos Jr. The group criticized the counterinsurgency campaign in the countryside which continues to result in widespread evacuations, dislocation of farmers’ lives and livelihood, illegal arrests, bombing and strafing of civilian communities and others.

Various sectors expressed their demands in the protests and mass actions. Workers shouted: Fight for a living wage! Health workers, teachers and government employees demanded for salary increases. Youth and students, church workers, women, journalists, farmers and other democratic sectors joined the protests.

They denounced the US military aid to the Marcos regime that it uses to suppress the people.