In a distressing incident that occurred on the night of September 3, 2023, two dedicated youth organizers, were abducted by four armed men in Barangay Lati, Orion, Bataan, as reported by Panday Sining and AKAP KA Manila Bay. Both Castro and Tamano had been actively involved in volunteer work with AKAP KA Manila Bay and had been subject to intimidation and harassment leading up to this harrowing event.
Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano had been selflessly serving their community as youth volunteers for AKAP KA Manila Bay. Their primary focus was on preparing for relief operations and consultations to help those in need.
According to the report, even before the abduction took place, Castro and Tamano were subjected to ongoing intimidation and harassment, presumably as a result of their dedication to community service and advocacy.
“Castro and Tamano continue to fight against the destructive projects looming on Manila Bay due to their impact on the environment and livelihood. Instead of support, they only reap fear and violence,” said AKAP Ka Manila Bay.
Both Castro and Tamano were former members of STAND (Student Alliance for the Advancement of Democratic Rights) at Bulacan State University. Tamano graduated with a degree in Business Administration, majoring in Business Economics, while Castro was an undergraduate studying Psychology. During their time at Bulacan State University, they actively advocated for students' rights and welfare within the university.
The kidnapping of Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano is very alarming. It shows how hard it can be for people who try to help others and stand up for what's right. This incident also tells us that the current government is acting in a harsh and unfair way. They hurt these young organizers who were only trying to make things better for people. This shows that the government is not respecting basic rights and the idea of democracy.
PLEASE HELP IN FINDING JHED TAMANO AND JONILA CASTRO
— Tinay Palabay (@TinayPalabay) September 3, 2023
Disturbing reports reached us - at 7pm September 2, 2023, 2 young environmental rights defenders Jhed Tamano, 22, & Jonila Castro, 21, were abducted in front of the ofc of the Orion Water District, Brgy. Lati, Orion, Bataan. pic.twitter.com/T1gPwLKIZ5
We really need to act quickly and effectively to bring Jonila and Jhed back safely. We also need to deal with the bigger problem of scaring and bothering activists and organizers in this area. This situation reminds us how important it is to protect democratic values and human rights in our society.
Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano are now the 12th and 13th victims of enforced disappearance, joining the list that includes Cedrick Casano. This is a very concerning trend because it means that almost half of the enforced disappearances during the Duterte administration have happened recently, just days after the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances.
