By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

As part of the 32nd Escalante Massacre Commemoration, which began yesterday in Escalante City, murals were commissioned to “amplify the cry for justice.”
“The images update the continuing struggles with land reform, poverty, and social injustice, especially the situation of sugarcane workers – victims of modern-day slavery,” said event coordinator Alejandro Deoma.
The eight sets of paintings, each measuring 10 feet by 10 feet, depict images expressing opposition to the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao, alleged state-sanctioned extrajudicial killings, among other issues.
“Our common theme is continuing struggle and the continuing oppression of peasants,” explained Rafael Karlo Burdeos of Dibuhistang Naghiliugyon sa Negros (Dihon).
The event also includes concerts, film screenings, plays, seminars, workshops, among other activities./WDJ