Karapatan deputy secretary general said she was sickened to see the “preferential treatment” being given to high-profile officials facing cases, while ordinary Filipinos who joined anti-corruption protests last year continue to suffer due to the cases filed against them,
Taule noted that officials facing cases have been able to hold press conferences while detained, received immediate medical attention, and were able to post bail easily.
She said that 131 individuals are still facing cases in court over the anti-corruption protest last year and they struggle to leave their work just to attend court hearings.
These individuals are ordinary Filipinos like delivery riders, construction workers, and vendors who need whatever job they can get to feed their families, she said.
She also said that after their arrest, they were beaten by police who took their cellphones, cash, and other valuables.
“It sickens me to watch the news and see contractors of flood control projects, senators, congressmen and even the vice president given preferential treatment—holding presscons while detained, receiving immediate medical attention, and posting bail without fuss. I and our clients understand this is how the system works for the poor,” she said.
Taule said they would continue to speak up and exercise their constitutionally protected right to protest and to free speech and expression and call for justice and accountability.
“Hindi makakalimot ang taumbayan,” she added.