Raps vs Compostela barricade leaders hit

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Various groups have protested the charges filed against eight militant leaders who led the “human barricade” along the highway between Monkayo and Montevista towns in Compostela Valley last Jan. 15.

Police have filed charges against Mae Fe Ancheta-Templa and Lenny Camino of Balsa Mindanao; Carlos Trangia, Bello Timdasan and Grace Curso of Barug Katawhan; Sheena Duazo of Bagong Al-yansang Makabayan; Juland Suazo of the environmentalist group Panalipdan; and Tony Salubre of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas.

The eight were charged with unlawful appearance, public disturbance, and obstruction of traffic under the Revised Penal Code.

At least 1,000 protesters barricaded the national highway demanding government help which they said has not reached far-flung areas hit by typhoon “Pablo.”