MANILA, Philippines – Over 60 organizations from across the globe have called on President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his administration to commit to “respecting the right to defend human rights.”

“President Marcos Jr. should cease the threats and attacks against rights defenders and ensure the protection of their rights, including the rights to life, due process, freedom of expression, and freedom of peaceful assembly,” their statement released on Monday read.

This was signed by the Anti-Death Penalty Asia Network; the Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development; Canada-Philippines Solidarity for Human Rights Canada; Front Line Defenders International; IBON International; some chapters of the Malaya Movement and Migrante; as well as individuals Bronwyn Dudley, Emile Kinley-Gauthier, and Florfina Marcelino.

The call comes as members of Karapatan, Gabriela and the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines face trial before the Quezon City Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 37 on perjury, namely:

•Karapatan Chairperson Elisa Tita Lubi

•Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay

•Karapatan Deputy Secretary General Gabriela Krista Dalena

•Karapatan Treasurer Edita Burgos

•Karapatan Treasurer Edita Burgos

•Karapatan National Council members Wildredo Ruazol and Jose Mari Callueng

•Gabriela Chairperson Gertrudes Ranjo Libang

•Gabriela Secretary General Joan May Salvador

•RMP member Sr. Elenita Belardo