📷Francisco “Eco” Dangla III
House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro expressed her approval of the Supreme Court’s decision to grant a Temporary Protection Order and writs of amparo and habeas data to environmental activist and ACT Pangasinan provincial coordinator, Francisco “Eco” Dangla III. The decision serves as a significant warning to state forces against the harassment, kidnapping, and potential harm of activists and critics of the current administration.
Rep. France Castro stated, “The Supreme Court’s decision is a pivotal step in safeguarding the rights of activists who tirelessly work for the protection of our environment and the welfare of the people. By granting Francisco Dangla III’s petition for protection, the Court sends a clear message that illegal abductions and intimidation tactics by state forces will not be tolerated.”
The Court’s ruling prohibits the respondents, including Lieutenant General Roy Galido, commanding general of the Philippine Army, from coming within a 1-kilometer radius of Dangla and his immediate family. This order is a crucial measure to ensure his safety and freedom from harassment.
“This Temporary Protection Order and the accompanying writs of amparo and habeas data are essential interim reliefs that prevent further harm to Eco Dangla and establish accountability among those who misuse their power. We hope this case will set a precedent for protecting other activists facing similar threats,” Castro added.
The legal proceedings require the Court of Appeals to conduct a summary hearing and decide on the petition within ten days of submission for decision.
“We urge the judiciary to continue standing firm in defense of human rights and to ensure that those who dare to silence dissent through fear and violence are held accountable,” concluded Rep. Castro.#
