UP Diliman welcomes Manilakbayan 2015
Manilakbayan 2015 arrived at the main campus of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City on October 26 after nine days of travel from various regions in Mindanao. They were welcomed by UP Diliman chancellor Michael Tan, teachers, students and staff. the national university is hosting the Manilakbayan camp while the 700-strong contingent is in Metro Manila for series of activities in the Philippine capital.
At least 71 Lumad opposing large-scale mining operations on their ancestral domains have been killed under the Benigno Aquino administration while more than three thousand are in various evacuations centers across Mindanao. The Lumad’s tribal community schools are also under threat from government troops and their paramilitary groups.
Here are some photos of Manilakbayan 2015’s arrival at UP Diliman. #
UP students arriving at Quezon Hall as they prepare for the Lumad’s arrival.
More students arriving at Quezon Hall hours before the Lumad arrive.
The Save Our Schools Network-UP Diliman Chapter prepared bananas and potatoes for a ceremonial boodle fight with the Lumad.
The crowd seek shelter from a downpour as they await the ‘Manilakbayanis’.
A full moon rises to welcome the Lumad to UP Diliman.
Manilakbayan 2015 arrives at UP Diliman at nightfall.
Manilakbayan arrives at the national university after nine days of travel from various regions in Mindanao.
UP’s Oblation opens its arms for the Lumad.
Visibly tired, the Lumad still make their message clear with banners they brought from Mindanao.
The ‘Manilakbayanis’ ascend the steps of the historic Quezon Hall, administrative building of the University of the Philippines System.
UP Diliman Chancellor Michael Tan welcomes the Lumad. He later gave Manilakbayan leaders the UP Sablay as a symbol of solidarity.
Datus kicked off the worn sandals from their tired feet as they listen to speeches welcoming them to UP.
The undaunted.
Chancellor Tan with the Lumad in a boodle fight symbolizing solidarity.
The brave ‘Manilakbayanis’ and the Oblation.
(Text and photos by Raymund B. Villanueva)