Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila De Lima said the lessons of Martial Law should not be forgotten and called for the passage of a genuine law against political dynasties to end the abuse of power by a few families.
Marking the anniversary of the Martial Law declaration by President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., father of the incumbent chief executive, De Lima warned against efforts to whitewash or distort history.
She said Filipinos should not forget those who suffered during the abuses of Martial Law: the thousands killed, tortured, and jailed, the disappeared, and those who were silenced.
They should also not forget the plunder of the nation’s coffers by a few, she said.
“We remember the survivors of Martial Law, and all those who continue to carry its memories and scars. We honor those who fought and sacrificed for our democracy and seek justice for all those who suffered by continuing to stand for truth, justice, and democracy. Collectively and courageously,” she said.
She said these will be repeated if people forget history, noting that there are efforts to spread fake news and disinformation to evade accountability.
De Lima also said that amid the problems the country is facing, the same family names continue to hold public office and retain power.
It’s time to address this, she said.
“Tama na. Sobra na. Panahon na para ibigay sa taumbayan ang tunay na kapangyarihan. Ipasa na ang totoong batas para wakasan ang dinastiya at pang-aabuso ng iilang pamilya,” she said.
The Supreme Court earlier ruled that Congress is in grave abuse of discretion by not passing an anti-dynasty law to prohibit political dynasties, and must approve such a measure.