On February 4, 2025, Myrna "Micah" Cruz-Abraham was released on bail after being illegally arrested on January 27 in San Rafael, Bulacan. Her arrest is a manifestation of the worsening crackdown on Indigenous Peoples' human rights defenders in the Philippines.
Katribu Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas strongly asserts that Micah is innocent of the baseless charges filed against her. These charges are fabricated and must be dismissed immediately. Reportedly, the Aparri RTC Branch 9 dismissed the same charges of frustrated murder against other activists earlier arrested and detained. Notably, Micah is not even accused of the fabricated charges indicated in her mugshots.
We denounce this blatant attempt to silence an Indigenous Peoples’ rights advocate who has dedicated her life to defending marginalized communities. We condemn the continuous attacks, harassment, and intimidation against activists like Micah. The persecution of human rights defenders at the hands of state forces is a clear manifestation of the worsening political repression in the country. Instead of addressing the legitimate concerns of Indigenous communities—land grabbing, displacement, and militarization—the government has resorted to criminalizing those who resist.
Myrna Cruz-Abraham is not a criminal. She is a dedicated advocate for Indigenous Peoples' rights, tirelessly working alongside communities whose rights have long been trampled upon.
We call on the government to drop all trumped-up charges against Myrna "Micah" Cruz-Abraham and ensure the protection of all Indigenous rights defenders. We demand an end to political persecution and the immediate release of all political prisoners unjustly detained for their advocacy.
Drop the charges against Myrna "Micah" Cruz-Abraham! Free all political prisoners! Stop the attacks on Indigenous Peoples' rights defenders! #
Reference:
Beverly Longid
National Convener
Katribu Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas
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