Supporters submit letters to DOJ for release of Amanda Echanis

Several individuals on Tuesday submitted almost 100 appeal letters to the Department of Justice for the release of Amanda Echanis, the daughter of slain Anakpawis leader Randall Echanis.

According to the Free Amanda Echanis Movement (FAEM), around 90 appeal letters were sourced from artists, writers, musicians, academe, food advocates, publishers, and local and international organizations, according to a report by Manny Vargas on Super Radyo dzBB.

“We need to keep the pressure on the government. It’s been nearly three years since Amanda was arrested on baseless allegations,” FAEM convener Tao Aves said in a statement.

“Her accusers have yet to produce a shred of evidence yet Amanda continues to be denied justice at every turn,” he added.

Echanis, a writer and organizer of Amihan National Federation of Peasant Women, was arrested in Cagayan in December 2020 by state forces due to alleged possession of firearms and explosives, according to FAEM.

In March, groups also called for the release of women political prisoners, especially those who are elderly and sick, including Echanis.

Echanis' next hearing is scheduled for October. —KG, GMA Integrated News