The production team of the play “Higit sa Pag-ibig, The Musical” strongly condemned the AFP for red-tagging, persecuting, and surveilling “Julie,” who played “Mommy Kendi” in the play.

Posters red-tagging mass organization leaders in the city have been spotted in Legazpi City and other parts of the region in recent weeks. The malicious posters include a photo of Julie taken during a September 21 anti-corruption protest. Julie have earlier noticed being under surveillance.

According to the group, Julie is a legitimate stage performer with an impressive record as an actor, teacher, director, and workshop facilitator. She also advocates for the rights and welfare of artists.

“At this time, when the country is confronted with scandals, large-scale corruption cases, and misuse of public funds, we can’t help but reflect on the dire situation of artists and the creative sector who are just trying to survive and continue to make art despite the lack of support and funding. We maintain our stance that we must demand accountability from those responsible. We will not be silenced by the growing intimidation attempts.”

“Red-tagging, silencing of dissent, and surveillance are among the very issues we presented in Higit sa Pag-ibig, The Musical. Just like Barangay Eskwala, a community depicted in our show, we will also continue to stand up,” the group said.

The play’s production staff call on fellow artists to defend their ranks and continue advocating and standing up for the community’s rights and welfare.

*The play ‘Higit sa Pag-Ibig, The Musical’ (Beyond Love) was produced by Sining Banwa, an Albay-based cultural orgnization.