But Mayon Volcano is not the only reason for the Philippines being featured in many newspapers: also the human rights situation in the land of the 7107 islands is being watched by human rights organizations. There are people who want to improve the political situation and fight for the rights of the population. But some of them fear to be kidnapped or even killed for their activities.

Dissidents or journalists who criticize politicians and mighty clans are prone to get into conflict and have to be worried about their lives. The latest kidnappings and killings in Maguindanao / Mindanao during November 2009 are a sad example of that situation. At that time, a few dozen people where killed, most of them were journalists and political opponents of the family clan of the Ampatuan. Many witnesses link Andal Ampatuan Junior to the massacre.

The son is being sad to be wanting to follow the footsteps of his father by becoming the governor in Maguindanao province. Now, the head of the massacre is imprisonned and probably has to face a harsh judgment. Also his father, Andal Ampatuan Senior seems to be involved in the cruel bloodbath, when 57 civilians have been murdered.

Mindanao, the huge southern island in the Philippines, is known for having big problems concerning human rights since decades. Groups like Abu Sayyaf and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) who are fighting for an autonomous Muslim State terrorize the whole country. It is questionable, if  controversial laws like the “Human Security Act” of 2007 might help to make further steps in the peace process. Hopefully, the new government after the elections this year will make efforts and bring peace and human rights to the Philippine people. They would deserve it.