The Asian Federation Against Involuntary Disappearances (AFAD) together with representatives from human rights organizations in the Philippines gathered today, to commemorate the enforced disappearance of Sombath Somphone. Former Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Ms. Etta Rosales who was also present in the event gave an inspirational message to encourage human rights defenders to not lose hope and to continue the struggle for truth and justice. Shui Meng, the wife of Sombath, sent a video message expressing her thanks to AFAD and human rights networks in the Philippines.
Sketches of the Disappeared, including that of Sombath Somphone, were displayed. “The sketches all have no eyes”, the artist says, “they will have eyes when they reappear”.
The event was also the launching of the ilitaw.ph – the official campaign website regarding enforced disappearances in the Philippines.
More than 50 people from various human rights organizations and media organizations attended the event.