Oblation Run: APO calls for ‘rule of law’ amid corruption
MANILA, Philippines–At least 40 naked members of the Alpha Phi Omega (APO) fraternity streaked around Palma Hall of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, on Friday during the annual “Oblation Run.”
In a statement, the fraternity called for the upholding of the “rule of law” in light of corruption scandals such as the pork barrel scam, which resulted in the detention of three senators and accused mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles.
“We, the men of APO, denounce the constant defilement of the country’s rule of law. Perpetrated even by the people to whom we entrust the execution of law, these violations have detained Filipinos in fear and doubt, not only of transgressors of law, but not of its enforcers,” the fraternity said.
The fraternity also denounced the insertions of lump sum funds in the proposed 2015 budget, as well as the government’s continued defense of President Aquino’s Disbursement Acceleration Program, which is said to be the executive’s pork barrel.
The APO also touched on various issues concerning human rights: the killing of transgender Jennifer Laude, the victims of Supertyphoon “Yolanda,” Zamboanga siege, Maguindanao massacre and the landless tillers in Hacienda Luisita.
The fraternity urged the country to participate in the efforts to craft an effective Bangsamoro basic law for long-lasting peace in Mindanao, and to support the passage of a genuine agrarian reform bill and a freedom of information bill.
The fraternity then called on government to apply the rule of law in going after the alleged wrongdoings not only of the opposition but also of administration allies.
“In light of our stand, this year’s Ritual Dance of the Brave carries with it the call for accountability and sustained actions on the part of those in power to respect the rule of law,” the group said.
“Ours is a republic built upon laws. It can only be strong as our collective ability to respect, abide by and defend those laws,” it added.
