FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—The Human Rights Victims Claims Board (HRVC) on Saturday paid tribute to Filipino women for their contributions to the struggle for freedom and human rights, especially during the martial law years.
HRVC Chair Lina Sarmiento said the board acknowledged the burdens and vulnerabilities of women and girls in situations of crisis, conflict and disaster.
Sarmiento, who issued the statement in celebration of International Women’s Day, said women bravely fought the Marcos dictatorship and stood along with the men to protect human rights and fight injustice.
“Without them, we would not be enjoying the freedoms and rights that we have right now,” she said.
“They became direct victims of martial law or mothers, sisters and wives of these victims. It was not only individuals who suffered under the authoritarian rule but communities and the nation as a whole,” she said.
The board was created to process the claims for compensation of the martial law victims. Cynthia D. Balana
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