MANILA, PHILIPPINES — We were given a voice to speak. That’s why in the 5th episode of event series GANAP “So What, Chocnut: Pista ng mga Tula at Awit Laban sa Red-Tagging at Red-Shaming”, will celebrate and fight for our right to protect. The episode is co-sponsored by Bookshelf PH and will happen on the 29th of June, 8 PM to 9 PM.
13th month pay, maternity leave, free education, mass testing and free vaccination against COVID-19 are just a few things that we Filipinos have the right to demand for. However, there is this culture of red-tagging and red-shaming prevailing, which causes innocent Filipinos who just mean to fight for our country, being arrested, and sometimes killed. All the more reason for us to fight for our freedom of speech.
In this day and age, it’s more important than ever for people to exercise their right to free speech. George Washington once said, “If freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.” Though there are tools today like the internet and social media that can amplify all sorts of voices, it’s always important to remain vigilant against oppression.
We have the power to use our voices to fight for the innocent. In this episode, we are joined with known poets such Joi Barrios, Nicolas Pichay, Marra Lanot, Krip Yuson, Rio Alma, Joey Baquiran, Luna Sicat, Marj Evasco, Vim Nadera, Gemino Abad, Roland Tolentino, Lourd de Veyra, Fidel Rillo, and Boni Ilagan who will be reading for Bien Lumbera.
Come and watch the performances of singers such as Monique Wilson, Becky Demetillo, Rica Saturay, and Upeng Galang. Joining this event are Carol Araullo at Bibeth Orteza together with hosts, Noel Ferrer, Marian Roque, and Jina Umali.
From community pantries to fighting for the West Philippines Sea and all other issues in this country that are in need of our voices. Come and experience the 5th episode of GANAP, full of poems and songs!
#ProudToProtest #NoToRedTagging
