‘Red-tagged’ farmer leader Joseph Canlas dies of COVID-19 in jail

Labor and farmer leader Joseph Canlas dies of COVID-19 while in prison, several progressive groups reported today.

Only Monday, the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) called for Canlas’ release in the name of “humanitarian grounds” after his condition became critical along with COVID-19 infection, hypertension, and diabetes.

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The news was confirmed by the Bayan Muna and Anakpawis party-list itself, Tuesday. He said the government’s “fabricated cases” and “red-tagging” against Canlas ultimately led to his death.

“We mourn the avertable passing of exemplary peasant leader Joseph Canlas. He passed away early this morning after succumbing to complications of COVID-19, which he acquired from unjust and prolonged detention,” said Anakpawis in a statement.

According to Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate, Ka Joseph tested positive for the deadly virus after undergoing an antigen test while in the intensive care unit.

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“[Ikinulong muna siya] sa mga gawa-gawang kaso. Ngayon siya ay pumanaw na at ang kanyang kamatayan ay pananagutan ng mga nasa otoridad dahil noong siya ay hinuli noong March 30 sa tinaguriang ‘huli week’ ay napakalakas pa niya,” said Zarate.

‘Red-tagged’ farmer leader Joseph Canlas dies of COVID-19 in jail

“He was not even tested for COVID when he was in quarantine even if the BJMP knows that Ka Joseph had hypertension and diabetes which makes him more vulnerable to COVID infection. He was only brought to the hospital when it was too late.”

According to KMP’s accounts, BJMP Angeles District Warden Jail Superintendent Rebecca Manalo-Tiguelo allegedly “underestimated” Canlas’ treatment of his health.

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In this regard, the said group held the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, BJMP and the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte accountable for the death of the said leader-activist.

“Charges must be brought against those who caused his untimely death. We must also take note and be wary of what happened  to Ka Joseph as it may be another modus, a form of “silent extra-judicial killing” via Covid19,” said Zarate.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has not yet made a statement regarding Canlas’ death inside the jail.

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