ATM condemns envi defender Cabias’ shooting
Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) strongly condemns the shooting of Jesus Cabias, Jr., a well-known environmental defender who has been actively opposing black sand mining in MacArthur, Leyte.
We find it deeply distressing that Jesus was attacked while in the comforts of his own home in Brgy. Liwayway, MacArthur Leyte on the evening of November 6. Jesus was watching television on the balcony when he was shot. He was immediately rushed to the hospital.
We call on the government to promptly investigate the shooting of Jesus, and to immediately bring the perpetrators to account for their crime.
Further, we are concerned for the safety and security of environmental and human rights defenders (EHRDs), who have been the target of killings, assaults, and harassment for decades.
No one should be attacked for exercising their right to free expression or for defending their community from the destruction caused by extractive projects.
We call on the PBBM administration to prioritize the legislation of the Human Rights Defenders’ Bill to ensure that EHRD’s are protected and kept safe.
Lastly, we extend our solidarity with Jesus’ fight for their land, water, and livelihoods. We wish him a speedy and full recovery as we continue to fight for justice and accountability.
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