Slain Activist Honored; Justice Still Elusive

By Juliane Judilla

Family and friends gathered on Nov. 7 to commemorate the life and advocacy of Ilonggo activist Jose Reynaldo “Jory” Porquia. Porquia was shot 14 times in his rented hut in Arevalo, Iloilo City, on April 30, 2020.

Despite the passage of four years, the case remains unsolved, with no arrests or charges filed.

A mass and program were held alongside an ongoing congressional hearing on the enhanced police-military operations during the Duterte administration.

The hearing, which focuses on human rights abuses linked to anti-insurgency policies, has brought renewed attention to activists and victims of extrajudicial killings.

During the memorial, the family expressed their persistent hope for justice.

“Four years may have passed, but we remain committed to seeking justice for Tatay and for all victims of violence and impunity,” said Lean Porquia, the activist’s son.

“We call on the public, especially those who have suffered at the hands of the same forces, to stand with us and demand accountability,” he added.

Human rights group Panay Alliance-Karapatan underscored the importance of maintaining pressure on authorities and highlighted the ongoing dangers faced by human rights defenders.

The group urged the public to voice support for efforts to hold those responsible for Porquia’s death, along with other activists killed during the previous administration, accountable.

Bayan Muna chairperson Neri Colmenares has called for the QuadComm hearing to include victims of extrajudicial killings (EJKs) or hold a special hearing to address political killings, including Porquia’s murder.

As the case remains unresolved, many question the government’s commitment to addressing human rights violations.

Activists and legal organizations continue to push for policies that protect individuals from politically motivated violence.

The commemoration stands as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice in a climate marked by fear and impunity.

Porquia was the Iloilo City coordinator for the party-list group Bayan Muna and a devoted human rights and environmental activist.

Before his death, he organized community kitchens in urban poor areas during the pandemic lockdown.