VICTIMS of the Escalante massacre who survived the darkest moments in their lives during the Martial law era continue to demand justice for all the human rights violations done to them 33 years ago, a time when they gathered at the public plaza in Escalante.
Alicia Caburnay, one of the victims, said she can still recall her painful experience where she had a gunshot wound in her foot. But she was not able to get the needed medication because they were not allowed to do so.
"I suffered from it without getting the needed medication. We were just expressing our demands for an increase in our salary and reduction of commodities but we ended up wounded and others even died at the public plaza," she said.
During the commemoration of the 33rd Escalante massacre anniversary Thursday, September 20, progressive groups led by Bayan Muna-Negros have joined hands to continue the press for justice to the victims.
"No to Martial Law again," they stressed, as they called on the government to stop all acts against human rights including laws and policy of the present administration that are hurting the Filipino people.
Michael dela Concepcion, secretary-general of Bayan-Negros, said the Escalante massacre was an incident that has not reached its resolution, the reason why they continue to commemorate it every year.
They hope that all that issues that hurt the citizens of this country will be addressed by the government especially on the implementation of the tax reform law, the high inflation rate, high cost of basic commodities, among others.
Meanwhile, progressive groups will lead today the Martial Law anniversary protests.