Juana Change, UP prof, other activists on House blacklist
A LAWMAKER representing the youth sector slammed the alleged blacklisting of militant leaders and activists in the House of Representatives (HOR).
Kabataan Rep. Terry Ridon on Wednesday presented a copy of the memorandum dated March 18, 2015 which has the subject “Blacklisted/Banned Persons to the House of Representatives” which listed names of persons who allegedly violated rules on “proper behavior” and “decorum” in the Congress’ lower chamber.
Some of the names included in the memorandum were activist-performer Mae Paner also known as Juana Change, UP College of Mass Communication professor Danilo Arao, National Union of Students of the Philippines chair Sarah Elago and College Editors Guild of the Philippines president Marc Lino Abila.
Members of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, League of Filipino Students, partylists Kabataan, Anakpawis and ACT Teachers, and group Kilos Bayan sa Kalusugan were also listed.
In the memorandum, some of the violations listed which were allegedly committed by the blacklisted persons include: “shouting and displaying banner in the conference room,” “vandalism” and “shouting and displaying of placards in the conference room.”
Ridon said that the memorandum was secretly implemented and only came to his attention after some resource persons invited for committee hearings were barred from entering the HOR complex.
“This new memorandum, issued by Legislative Security Bureau (LSB) Director Isabelito Flores, is inimical to the image and message of Congress being the ‘House of the People.’ People included in the list are known progressives and socio-civic leaders who are frequently invited by the Lower House itself to share their knowledge and expertise in several pieces of legislation,” Ridon said.
The lawmaker said that the “draconian” memorandum curtails the right of freedom of expression.
“This new security memo is essentially a draconian move instigated by an insecure administration who will go to any length to curtail dissent and the people’s freedom of expression and association. How can Congress be truly a House of the People if leaders of peoples’ organizations are not even allowed to step into its premises?” the lawmaker said.
Ridon said that he is mulling to file charges against those who are behind the memorandum.
