KARAPATAN, a well-known human rights group in the Philippines, strongly condemned the arrest of Jayvee “Jay” Apiag, a former human rights worker, on August 13, 2024. Apiag was taken into custody in Digos City and is currently detained at the Buhangin Police Station in Davao City.
Apiag is facing six charges, which Karapatan claims are unfounded.
These include four counts of attempted murder in various locations such as Davao, Digos, and Malaybalay in Bukidnon, as well as a charge for illegal possession of firearms and explosives in Malaybalay.
Cristina Palabay, the secretary general of Karapatan, emphasized that Apiag is innocent of these accusations.
She pointed out that during an alleged crime in Davao City on May 20, 2018, Apiag was actually leading a fact-finding mission in Tagum City, and he has evidence to prove it.
Palabay highlighted the absurdity of the charges by noting that one of Apiag’s co-accused, Elisa Tita Lubi, was 76 years old at the time and was verifiably in Metro Manila, far from the alleged crime scene.
Palabay argued that the cases against Apiag are designed to hinder his work as a human rights advocate.
Apiag has been a key figure in defending human rights in Southern Mindanao, especially during the martial law period on the island.
Since the Duterte administration, Apiag has been subjected to threats and harassment.
His name and image have appeared on posters and online, falsely labeling him as a member of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Palabay pointed out that Apiag’s arrest is part of a troubling pattern where Karapatan’s human rights workers face arrests, threats, or even death.
She mentioned other activists like Alexander Philip Abinguna, Alexandrea Pacalda, and Zara Alvarez, who have also suffered due to their advocacy.
Karapatan stands firmly behind Jay Apiag, vowing to support his fight for justice.
The organization is committed to campaigning for his release and the release of all political prisoners on just and humanitarian grounds.
Palabay urges the public and international community to be aware of these injustices and to support efforts in defending human rights in the Philippines.
The organization continues to call for accountability and the protection of human rights defenders, stressing the importance of safeguarding those who work tirelessly for justice and equality.
