Baguio, Philippines – In the heart of the Cordillera region in the northern Philippines, Windel Bolinget, a prominent activist leader, lives a life of seclusion and fear after being designated a “terrorist” by the government. The 49-year-old spends his days in undisclosed refuges, venturing out only when absolutely necessary and taking extreme precautions to avoid drawing attention to himself.
Bolinget, chairperson of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA), along with three other CPA leaders, was labeled a “terrorist” by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) on July 10, 2023. Under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Law of 2020, individuals designated as “terrorists” can be arrested without a warrant, have their travel restricted, assets frozen, and movements monitored without explanation.
The designation has had a profound impact on Bolinget and his colleagues, who now live in constant fear for their safety and the safety of their families. They have been forced to live in seclusion, with some friends and relatives cutting ties out of fear of being associated with them. The pressure and stress have taken a toll on their health, with frequent stomach issues and lack of sleep becoming common problems.
Despite facing legal challenges and attempts to fight back against the designation, Bolinget and his colleagues continue to live under a cloud of uncertainty and fear. The Anti-Terrorism Law has been criticized as a tool to suppress dissent and target government critics, with concerns about violations of due process and human rights.
As they navigate the complexities of the legal system and the constant threat of being labeled as “terrorists,” Bolinget and his colleagues remain steadfast in their commitment to fighting for the rights of Indigenous people and marginalized communities in the Cordillera region. Their struggle is not just a legal battle, but a fight for justice, freedom, and the right to speak out against injustice without fear of reprisal.