In the Philippines, being labelled as a communist ‘terrorist’ can mean arrest, imprisonment and even death, writes Iris Gonzales. But that hasn’t stopped journalists or activists.
Frenchie Mae Cumpio, then a 21-year-old Filipino journalist, and Mariel Domequil, a young human rights worker, were asleep in their room in a rented staff house in Tacloban City, Leyte, on 7 February 2020, when heavily armed men barged in, jolting them awake.
The officers were from the Philippine National Police, and they later claimed to have found firearms and grenades at the house. Cumpio denied this, saying the weapons had been planted.
The New Internationalist is an independent bi-monthly not-for-profit magazine that reports on action for global justice. We believe in putting people before profit, in climate justice, tax justice, equality, social responsibility and human rights for all.
New Internationalist acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We acknowledge that these lands were stolen and sovereignty was never ceded. We pay our respects to Elders both past and present.
© Copyright New Internationalist 1973-2026. Except where otherwise noted, content on this site is licensed under Creative Commons.
Except where otherwise noted, images on this site are © the attributed photographer/illustrator or representative agency.