Migrante-International
News Release
For reference:  Connie Bragas-Regalado, Chairperson (0927-215-7392)

Migrante slams ATB, Cha-Cha as schemes to keep Gloria in power

April 6, 2006

As Arroyo's desperation to remain in power mounts -- so do calls for her ouster.

Thus said an alliance of organizations composed of overseas Filipinos and their families.  Migrante International today proclaimed that as Arroyo resorts to increasingly fascist and desperate measures to entrench herself in Malacanang -- the people's resolve to oust her heightens.

"The passage of the Anti-Terrorism Bill in the Lower House last night bodes ill for the Filipino people.  It is a draconian measure that the Arroyo administration will use to muzzle and shackle all who oppose her illegitimate and anti-people regime.  But given our long and rich history of rising against tyranny -- we will never be silenced and
Arroyo's days are surely numbered,"  says Connie Bragas-Regalado,
Migrante International Chairperson.

This morning, Migrante International joined other progressive organizations in a triumphant march to Mendiola to amplify their protest against Charter Change, Martial Law and other schemes by Arroyo to cement herself in the Palace.

"Cha-Cha and the Anti-Terrorism Bill pave the way for even greater violations of our civil and democratic rights.  Contrary to Malacanang propaganda, Cha Cha is also about the complete sell-out of our national patrimony and sovereignty,"  she said.

Bragas-Regalado explained that opening up the country's vital industries, land and public utilities to 10% foreign ownership means more unemployment and a worsening economic crisis.  Conditions that lead to even more Filipinos forced abroad to seek work amidst even greater forms of exploitation and oppression.

"As alternatives to Gloria and Charter Change, we call for a Transition Council and the implementation of policies that will chart a course towards national industrialization and genuine agrarian reform," concluded Bragas-Regaldo. #