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With a significant majority, the Declaration of Support for Philippine Human Rights was approved at General Synod 35. The resolution passed with 628 votes in favor, three against, and four abstentions on July 14.
Rev. Terry Parrish, the committee chair, introduced the resolution by emphasizing the need to address ongoing human rights violations in the Philippines under the guise of a war on drugs. "It is imperative that we continue to speak to human rights violations still occurring in the Philippines under the auspices of a war on drugs," said Parrish.
The declaration strongly condemns violent acts and unjust actions against those standing in solidarity with people experiencing social, political, or economic injustices in the Philippines. Parrish highlighted insights from educational sessions and shared how Rev. George Lungay's experiences influenced their understanding.
Rev. George Lungay from the United Church of Christ in the Philippines spoke about abuses such as arbitrary killings and red-tagging since President Duterte's administration until now under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s leadership. He expressed his concerns for safety while advocating against these injustices.
After unanimous support during discussions, Lungay expressed relief and optimism about returning to share this positive development with his countrymen. “We Filipinos are brave in fighting in all these struggles but at this moment...we really need the support of our partner churches like the UCC,” he stated.
Ann Muir from Central Pacific Conference believes this declaration will have wider implications beyond church circles and could influence Capitol Hill decisions through lobbying efforts backed by national UCC support.
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