Each year we commemorate our independence from colonizers—government institutions, public and private organizations, and the general public observe this day with festivities and mobilizations. But are we really celebrating our freedom or are we merely acting on a century-old tradition?

Independence Day signifies freedom from colonizers and oppression—that a nation and its people can finally self-govern without the political control of more powerful states. Looking at the current situation of our country, it is evident that we still lack true and real independence. It is apparent that China has some hold over our country. Chinese military continuously harasses Filipino fisherfolks and damage our marine species to assert their claim over the West Philippine Sea. Underground and unlicensed medical facilities treating Chinese nationals, particularly Chinese POGO workers afflicted with COVID-19 has been sprouting in various cities. In several public addresses of Duterte, he repeatedly thanked Xi Jinping for China’s alleged support during this pandemic.

Amidst the health crisis that the Filipino people is facing, and at a time when our collective voices have been demanding for mass testing and stronger healthcare support from the national government, the Philippine Congress has recently approved and signed the Anti-Terrorism Bill. If passed into law, it can be used to infringe on our fundamental rights. The Bill’s broad definition of terrorism puts people at risk to warrantless arrests as deemed necessary by our law enforcement agencies. This bill can and will be used to silence activists, critics, opposition, and anyone who is just clamoring for justice and change. The urgency that our politicians have put into this bill in this critical time clearly reveals their priorities, and sadly, it is not about the people’s well-being. We do not deny the existence of terrorists and the negative effects of their actions, but such should not be used as an excuse to kill our democracy.

The LGBTIQ+ people’s persistent fight for gender equality has always been rooted in upholding every person’s human rights and freedom regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual characteristics (SOGIESC). Human rights violations come in different forms and are intertwined. We can only achieve genuine equality and freedom once we recognize our responsibility to protect and fight against all forms of oppression, injustice, and discrimination. We hope that you are one with us in this struggle, especially this Pride Month.

Manindigan para sa Karapatan! Ipagpatuloy natin ang Laban para sa Kalayaan!

#IndependenceDay2020 #JunkTerrorBillNOW #MassTestingPH #YESToEquality #LoveWins #SOGIEEqualityNow #GALANGPhilippines