TABUK CITY, Kalinga (PIA) — Members of the religious sector and peace and justice advocates in Kalinga held a peaceful rally to call out corruption and promote human rights in commemoration of the 77th International Human Rights Day on December 10, 2025.
The participants marched from the St. William’s Cathedral to the Kalinga Sports Center in Bulanao, Tabuk City, holding up signs calling for transparency and accountability amid the corruption issues in the country.
They also advocated for environmental protection, inclusive education, and other human rights during the event that was organized by the Kalinga Apayao Religious Sector Association (KARSA).
“We, the organizers, believe nga in defending the poor against systemic corruption is also our inherent right. We are very grateful ti suporta ti naduma-duma nga NGOs, CSOs, and denominations,” said Fr. Jeorge Manisem, Director of the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk Social Action Center.
“We hope and pray nga daytuy nga itaktakder tayo nga ma-stop kuma ti corruption, ma-stop kuma ti human rights violations, ken mai-promote kuma ti good governance, daytuy kuma iti mangngeg not only in the national level but also in our provincial level,” he added.
The rally was followed by an Ecumenical Service where The Right Reverend Hilary Pasikan Jr., Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Luzon, gave a message encouraging the public to unite in action and not be indifferent to the current issues plaguing the country.
“There is much to be done. We can surely do much more when we are working and witnessing together. We must forge a closer and deeper unity if we are to fulfill the scripture and to bring about God’s Kingdom here and now. We cannot afford to be indifferent in the face of the many unwanted events unfolding in our midst perpetrated by those that regard their wants and personal interests ahead of the greater of society,” Pasikan said.
A forum was held to discuss the current state of human rights in the province and share insights among stakeholders toward improving the recognition of human rights in Kalinga.
The organizers thanked the Kalinga provincial government for allowing the use of its facilities for the event, the Tabuk City government for permitting the event, and the police for providing security. **JDP/IOS-PIA CAR, Kalinga
