THE Makabayan coalition, led by Representative France Castro of ACT-Teachers Partylist, condemned the recent conviction of the Talaingod 13, a group including Castro and former Representative Satur Ocampo of Bayan Muna, found guilty of endangering minors in 2018.
During a press conference today, November 29, held in observance of International Children’s Month, the coalition called the verdict an unjust punishment, sentencing the 13 individuals to up to six years in prison.
Eufemia Cullamat, a nominee for Bayan Muna, emphasized that the 13, including Castro and Ocampo, were simply advocating for the educational rights of indigenous children.
“Walay usa ka bata nga giabuso sa mga magtutudlo,” Cullamat said, pointing out that the conviction reflects the government’s failure to support Indigenous Peoples’ education.
The Talaingod 13 were charged for their involvement in efforts to assist Lumad children, a cause the coalition asserts is vital to ensuring their right to education.
Cullamat reiterated that the conviction would not deter their fight for justice, calling it a clear example of the suppression of educational rights for Lumad children.
“Unta makita sa Court of Appeal nga ang pag convict sa Talaingod 13 wala’y basehan. Usa kini sa paglapas sa katungod sa matag usa nga mabuhi nga gawasnon, malipayon, ug malinawon,” said Cullamat.
The coalition has appealed to the Court of Appeals to overturn the decision, asserting that the conviction lacked legal grounds and was a violation of human rights.
“We hope the Court of Appeals will recognize that the conviction of the Talaingod 13 is baseless and an infringement on our fundamental rights to live freely, happily, and peacefully,” Cullamat told reporters in Cagayan de Oro.
Makabayan senatorial candidate Teddy Casiño also spoke out, framing the case of the Talaingod 13 as part of a broader issue of the oppression of children’s rights.
“This is an injustice, and we call on the Court of Appeals in Cagayan de Oro to reverse this decision,” Casiño said.
France Castro expressed her resolve to continue fighting for justice, emphasizing the importance of maintaining due process.
“We will continue to fight for what is right and hope for a proper legal process,” she said.
Castro and her allies in the Makabayan bloc reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for the rights of Lumad teachers and students, arguing that their actions were grounded in human rights and fairness for marginalized groups left behind by the government.
