Workers condemn latest spate of violence at Hacienda Luisita

The militant labor center Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) today strongly condemned the recent spate of violence at Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac. The Cojuangco-Aquinos are to blame for the series of carnage at the Hacienda.

Reports from picketing workers said that unidentified suspects fired at the workers and supporters manning the west gate of the Central Azucarrera de Tarlac. Wounded in the incident were Ernesto Ramos, Jong Lablan and Gilbert Siodoro, residents of Hacienda Luisita.

“We will not condone these acts of violence against our fellow workers and their supporters. Policemen were said to be present during the shooting incident but they did nothing to apprehend the suspects who managed to escape the crime scene on board a gray Nissan Patrol with plate number TLA 115.”

Labor leader and KMU Secretary General Joel Maglunsod said that “as long as President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo fails to decisively intervene in the Hacienda Luisita case, killings and atrocities at Tarlac’s sugar central will continue. As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Chief Executive, she is highly accountable for the growing list of human rights violations and abuse against workers and the people.”

He added, “Only the Cojuangco-Aquinos have strong motives to commit such acts of violence. Habang nadadagdagan ang listahan ng mga pinapatay ng mga Cojuangco-Aquino, hindi titigil ang mga manggagawa at magsasaka sa Hacienda Luisita na lumaban para sa katarungan.”

All-workers rally for justice on January 14

KMU will spearhead a protest rally on January 14 at Mendiola to pursue the fight for justice for the victims of Hacienda Luisita Massacre and the continuing violence against striking workers and farm workers at the Hacienda.