Tanggol Quezon calls for accountability and justice for the death of an ailing political prisoner from Quezon last December 25, 2024. Hilario de Roxas, a farmer from Catanauan, Quezon, suffered a stroke and died due to the criminal negligence of New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City, according to the group.

De Roxas was a senior citizen suffering from hypokalemia (a condition where body potassium levels drop), pneumonia, and hypertension. Police and soldiers arrested him in General Luna, Quezon, on February 12, 2020 on trumped up criminal charges, Tanggol Quezon said.

He was transferred to NBP on September 30, 2024 from detention at Gumaca District Jail and Quezon District Jail (QDJ) in Pagbilao. According to the group, while de Roxas was detained at QDJ, he already suffered a mild stroke and developed various health ailments.

“Instead of focusing on immediate treatment, he was bombarded with additional baseless cases,” the group said. In total, no less than 14 cases were filed against him.

The prison management repeatedly disregarded De Roxas’s condition and complaints about his worsening condition. Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) officials even blocked the paralegals’ efforts to provide him support and services.

“Along with our condolences to the family and relatives of De Roxas, we strongly condemn the NBP and BJMP for criminal negligence in his death,” according to Tanggol Quezon. The group emphasized that de Roxas’ ordeal is proof of the state’s cruel and inhumane treatment of political prisoners.

“Hilario de Roxas’ strength and courage amid state oppression is an inspiration to the continuing struggle for justice,” Tanggol Quezon extolled.

De Roxas was among the survivors of the Guinayangan Massacre during Martial Law under the US-Marcos dictatorship. He continuously fought and united in promoting genuine agrarian reform and human rights in Quezon.