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Friday, April 30, 2004
Speak out: Thank you
By Alison Alcantara, Rodulfo Canedo and Janeth Montecalvo
We, the newly released political prisoners in Cebu, extend our greatest gratitude to all who helped us obtain our freedom.
In a rare demonstration of unity, political forces from divergent and opposing poles united for the greater cause of achieving social justice and national reconciliation.
These forces would not have a venue for coming together were it not for the peace talks between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF).
We are proud that our release came as result of these talks, particularly the 2nd Joint Oslo Agreement between the two belligerent parties mediated by the Royal Norwegian government.
In this, we recognize the vital role of the local courts in respecting the implementation of the agreement.
We commend the regional state prosecutor and regional directors of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Public Attorney’s Office for assisting the courts.
In particular, we hold in high esteem the sincere efforts of PAO chief Persida Rueda-Acosta, who worked tirelessly with the human rights group Karapatan in processing our papers and arguing before various agencies the exigency of our immediate release.
Lastly, we salute our comrades in the negotiating panel of the NDF for their unfailing support for our struggle to end political persecution and the release of all 310 political prisoners in the country.
Their efforts both here and abroad to find redress to the phenomenon of political persecution has provided us with the inspiration in continuing the struggle for social justice, national sovereignty, and democracy even in detention.
(April 30, 2004 issue)
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