In his interview with ANC’s After The Fact on February 18, Narvacan Mayor Chavit Singson claimed that the more than 3,000 recorded deaths and other human rights violations recorded during the Martial Law era are only allegations. He went on to say that the number of victims was inflated using fabricated documents, and only aim to vilify the late dictator.
CLAIM:
Ferdinand Marcos should not be blamed for the human rights violations committed during the Martial Law era
RATING:
FALSE
FACTS:
While there are no documents that can support Singson’s claim, the figures drawn up by the Human Rights Victims Claims Board and the Human Rights Violations Victims’ Memorial Commission (HRVVMC) have gone through a rigorous system of verification and investigation. Both bodies were created under Republic Act No. 10368 or the Human Rights Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013, to primarily receive, investigate and adjudicate claims by human rights violation victims for reparation and recognition.
HRVVMC recorded a total of 2,326 cases of killings and enforced disappearances and 11,103 cases of human rights violations during the Martial Law years, from 1972 to 1986. RA 10368 allocated P10 billion from the Swiss deposits of the Marcoses that were returned to the Philippine government for “reparation to victims of gross human rights violations during that period and for the establishment of a memorial museum and library.”
In its declaration of policy, RA 10368 also clearly states, “The State hereby acknowledges its moral and legal obligation to recognize and/or provide reparation to said victims and/or their families for the deaths, injuries, sufferings, deprivations, and damages they suffered under the Marcos regime.”
WHY IT MATTERS:
Dubbed by some as the current “king of the North,” Singson is a vocal supporter of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The video posted on YouTube now has about 774,000 views and is currently in the “Trending” list. – Minerva San Miguel and Gail Sobrevega
Altermidya Network is part of #FactsFirstPH which brings together various sectors that are committed to promoting truth in the public space, and exacting accountability on those who harm it with lies. For those interested to join the initiative, email info@factsfirst.ph.
