Controversial Burial Honors Marcos-Era Figure
The decision to grant Juan Ponce Enrile a hero's burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani has ignited strong criticism from human rights groups and martial law victims. Similar to his mentor Ferdinand Marcos Sr., Enrile will receive military honors that many argue he does not deserve given his historical record.
Martial Law Architect and Administrator
As a key planner of martial law and Marcos Sr.'s martial law administrator, Enrile supervised the use of police and armed forces to enforce authoritarian rule. Historical records show that during his leadership, security forces arrested up to 70,000 people without warrants and detained them without formal charges.
The human cost during this period remains staggering. Approximately 35,000 individuals suffered torture, while more than 3,000 people experienced extrajudicial killings. At least 700 citizens disappeared forcibly, leaving families without closure for decades.
Unrepentant Stance and Economic Interests
Throughout his life, Enrile never expressed remorse for these widespread human rights abuses. Instead, he consistently defended the declaration of martial law and rationalized his involvement in Marcos's 14-year authoritarian government. He maintained noticeable silence regarding the systematic corruption that characterized the martial law era, from which he substantially benefited.
One particularly disturbing incident involved the massacre of 45 villagers, including men, women, and children, in Sitio Sag-od, Las Navas, Northern Samar during September 1981. The victims resided within the timber concession owned by Enrile's San Jose Timber Corp. (SJTC).
Evidence indicates that paramilitary forces serving as SJTC security guards attacked the community under Enrile's direction. The assault occurred after villagers organized labor protests and faced accusations of supporting the New People's Army. This tragedy demonstrated how Enrile combined authoritarian violence with protection of his economic assets.
Historical Revisionism Concerns
Enrile's interment at the heroes' cemetery represents more than just a burial location controversy—it signifies a disturbing trend of historical revisionism. Critics note that Enrile will simply join other questionable figures at Libingan ng mga Bayani, including Marcos Sr. and Elpidio Quirino, considered among the nation's most corrupt presidents.
Human rights organizations strongly condemn honoring what they describe as a fascist and opportunistic personality. They argue that rather than receiving heroic recognition, Enrile's legacy properly belongs in history's critical examination where future generations can learn from past injustices.
