I first got wind of this through Noemi’s post.
This picture of monks walking down the streets of Burma, protesting its military junta, and joining the civilian protesters, gave me the shivers.
I recalled the Philippines’ EDSA I Revolution (People Power) in the 80s when, in protest of the Marcos dictatorship and in support for the rebels, millions of Filipinos came out into the street (nuns and priests included).
But there was a difference….
There was no bloodshed; there were no incarcerations; it all ended peacefully with the departure of Marcos and the return of democracy.
I am now a horrified observer of the goings-on in Burma through international TV stations and wonder what happened to all the monks we initially saw. Why are the streets and temples empty of them? How true is it that there are round-ups every night of citizens?
Being a member of ASEAN, the Philippines can do something to right the wrongs their member-country is foisting on its own citizenry. The international community has began taking active steps as well.
As a citizen who loves freedom, democracy and human rights, what can you do? Here are some ways you can help: