1.6K CYCLISTS JOIN PEACE AND JUSTICE CAMPAIGNS

AT least 1,599 cyclists from different biker groups in Central Luzon joined simultaneous Bike for Peace and Justice campaigns over the weekend as a means of protest against alleged human rights abuses, committed by communist groups, including the killing of cousins Kieth and Nolven Absalon in Masbate. Pampanga had the most number of participants with 1,000, followed by Tarlac with 245, Nueva Ecija with 200 and Zambales with 145. In Tarlac, Rufino Lopez Jr., deputy director general of the National Security Council, said the campaigns were aimed at showcasing unity between the government and the communities in calling to end violence, sown by the groups. He encouraged the youth sector to help and cooperate with the government’s programs and efforts to achieve lasting peace that will lead to progress. Speaking on behalf of Gov. Susan Yap, board member Jude Joseph David said the Bike for Peace and Justice campaigns and similar activities serve as new steps to create collective actions against human rights violations. Jaydee Arcilla of Ronda Pilipinas assured his group’s support to the government’s pursuit of peace while they pedal through different places in the country. The campaigns were jointly organized by the provincial governments through its respective Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Information Agency, Department of Public Works and Highways and Globe Telecom. A highlight of the simultaneous campaigns was the releasing of doves, symbolizing peace; lighting of candles; and singing of patriotic songs such as “Bayan Ko” and “Pilipinas Kong Mahal.”