On 4 February 2025, Myrna “Micah” Cruz-Abraham, a dedicated woman human rights defender, was granted bail after being unjustly detained for eight days. Her arrest was tied to a dubious ‘frustrated murder’ case from 2002, brought before the Appari Regional Trial Court. Tragically, she spent her 70th birthday, celebrated on 30 January, confined from her loved ones and fellow activists, a poignant reminder of her resilience amidst adversity.
Cruz-Abraham has passionately championed the rights of the Philippines’ most marginalised populations, including women, workers, and indigenous groups. With a notable history of activism dating back to 1983, she founded the Women’s Centre in Metro Manila, empowering women workers through education and support. In 2017, she joined Sandiwa, a network focused on defending the rights of national minorities, particularly advocating for the self-determination rights of Moro communities and supporting the Lumad Bakwit School between 2017 and 2019.
On the morning of 27 January 2025, Myrna was grocery shopping with her family when she was approached by operatives from the Philippine National Police. They detained her under a claim of a pending criminal case, while her companions were drawn into the chaotic scene. Later, it emerged that her arrest was part of a targeted operation against her, linked to accusations of being part of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
Myrna was swiftly moved to Camp Karingal, Quezon City, where her troubling health condition came to light. Despite alarming blood pressure readings signalling stage 2 hypertension, she remained imprisoned, with her arraignment set for 21 February 2025. This case is eerily reminiscent of her past experiences, including a kidnapping in 2010 where she faced false accusations and was tortured into confessions regarding an unrelated murder.
Advocacy group Front Line Defenders has condemned her arrest, characterising it as potential retaliation for her unwavering commitment to human rights. They express deep concern over ongoing judicial harassment and highlight the dangers faced by activists labelled as insurgents, which can lead to violence or even death.
In response to this situation, Front Line Defenders is urging the Philippine government to:
1. Drop all charges against Myrna Cruz-Abraham, asserting they stem only from her human rights advocacy.
2. Halt the widespread practice of red-tagging that endangers activists.
3. Ensure activists can operate freely and safely without fear of reprisals or judicial harassment, thereby safeguarding their vital roles in society.
Myrna “Micah” Cruz-Abraham, a prominent woman human rights defender in the Philippines, was released on bail after eight days of wrongful detention linked to a 2002 murder case. A steadfast advocate for marginalised communities, she spent her 70th birthday in confinement. Front Line Defenders condemned her arrest and called for an end to red-tagging and judicial harassment of activists.
Myrna Cruz-Abraham’s recent release on bail underscores the ongoing struggle human rights defenders face in the Philippines. Her harrowing experiences serve as a testament to the resilience of activists who bravely advocate for the rights of marginalised communities, fighting against unjust persecution. Advocacy groups like Front Line Defenders highlight the urgent need for the Philippine government to protect these defenders, cease red-tagging, and ensure a safe environment for their essential work.
Original Source: www.frontlinedefenders.org
