Relatives and progressive groups called for justice during the funeral march for Eric Saber towards Manila North Cemetery on October 2. Construction worker Saber died on September 23 from a bullet fired by state forces who indiscriminately shot at protesting youth in Mendiola and Recto on September 21.
Saber was reportedly coming from his work in Pasay City, got off at Recto Station, and was shot from behind while crossing the street to ride a jeepney. He was a victim of police brutality and violence against civilians on the day of the protest against corruption.
Joining the march with Saber’s relatives and friends were Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (Kadamay), Karapatan, and other groups. “Eric’s death at the hands of the police proves that the government spares no one from killing, and chooses no one to steal from,” Kadamay secretary general Mimi Doringo said.
“To Eric’s family, you are not alone. You are with the Filipino workers and all the people victimized by poverty and corruption in attaining justice for Eric and for all victims of police brutality,” KMU declared.
On September 29, KMU also staged a protest in front of Camp Crame to demand accountability from the Philippine National Police (PNP) for its criminal killing of Saber. “Fellow citizens, let us not allow the PNP, DILG, and Marcos government to twist the narrative. They killed Eric. They must be held accountable,” the group said.
KMU further demanded justice for Jude Fernandez, a veteran labor leader killed by the Marcos regime, during the protest in Camp Crame. State forces killed Fernandez on September 29, 2023, in his residence in Rizal.
