ON International Women’s Day the Akbayan party reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to defend women’s rights and create safe spaces for women in our society.

“We raise our voices to demand justice for the countless women who are victims of gender-based violence and harassment, particularly at the hands of Mr. Apollo Quiboloy.

These were the words of Akbayan party list, headed by its President Rafaela David who insisted that justice must prevail amid the alleged abuse suffered victims of Quiboloy.

David said Quiboloy’s despicable deeds, inflicting immeasurable suffering upon women, is impossible to ignore.

“His relentless assaults serve as glaring evidence of the entrenched culture of sexism, misogyny and violence festering within our society. We demand swift action – the arrest and punishment of Quiboloy for his appalling acts of gender-based violence and harassment. Holding him accountable sends a resounding message: perpetrators of such vile acts will face the full force of justice. We strongly urge all senators to rally behind their colleague, Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros’ call to hold Quiboloy in contempt and secure his arrest for defiantly snubbing a Senate hearing.” the Akbayan leader said.

According to David, senators who defend Quiboloy, who is allegedly being accused of heinous crimes such as rape and human trafficking, are coddlers of sexual predators and traffickers must also consider the situations of these victims who openly revealed their ordeal.

“Quiboloy squandered the chance to confront his accusers, opting instead to cower behind his supporters. This cowardly evasion must not go unpunished. The Senate must wield its power decisively.It is imperative to recognize the connection between Quiboloy’s abhorrent behavior and the culture of misogyny and violence perpetuated by former President Rodrigo Duterte. Quiboloy’s actions are symptomatic of a broader pattern of disregard for women’s rights and dignity, emboldened and enabled by Duterte’s regime,” Akbayan said.

The Akbayan leader stressed that the arrest of Quiboloy, whom they described as “a staunch Duterte loyalist and political crony”, serves as a crucial test case in holding the former president accountable for his complicity in fostering a culture of impunity and violence against women.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Camille P. Balagtas