📷: Pauline Joy Banjawan (Bayan Muna | FB)
Former Deputy Minority Leader and Bayan Muna Congressman Carlos Isagani Zarate vehemently condemns the enforced disappearance of Pauline Joy Banjawan, an urban poor organizer and Bayan Muna campaigner, who has been missing since Saturday in Batangas.
Banjawan, who was actively campaigning in the urban poor communities of the 3rd District of Batangas, reportedly complained of being tailed by suspicious individuals prior to her disappearance.
“The disappearance of Pauline Joy Banjawan is a grave and deeply concerning and condemnable act of violence against a dedicated community organizer. Her work among the urban poor, advocating for their rights and welfare, should be protected, not targeted,” Zarate stated.
This alarming incident occurs amidst an intensifying campaign of red-tagging and vilification directed towards Bayan Muna as the May 12 elections draw near.
“We hold the administration of Pres. Marcos, Jr. accountable for her safety and demand that she should be surfaced and an immediate and thorough investigation be made into her disappearance,” Zarate said.
Zarate emphasized the timing of this incident, linking it to the ongoing red-tagging and harassment of Bayan Muna members and supporters. “This act of terror is clearly meant to intimidate and silence those working for genuine social change. The pattern of red-tagging followed by violent attacks and disappearances is a chilling reminder of the dangers faced by activists and community organizers,” he added.
The former congressman called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other law enforcement agencies to prioritize the search for Banjawan and ensure her safe return.
He also urged the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
“We will not be silenced. We will continue to demand justice for Pauline Joy Banjawan and all victims of enforced disappearances and political persecution. We will not allow that fear and violence, deter the return of Bayan Muna in Congress as the voice and party of the marginalized sectors, ” Zarate declared.#
