The absence of the Comfort Women statue in the Philippines primarily impacts the surviving victims of wartime sexual violence, their families, and future generations. These women, who were subjected to unspeakable suffering during World War II, are denied a crucial symbol of recognition and justice. The removal of the statue undermines their struggle for acknowledgment and reparations, leaving deep emotional scars and reinforcing a culture of historical amnesia.

If the statue remains absent, it will signal a continuation of historical denial and the erasure of wartime atrocities from public memory. The legacy of the Comfort Women will fade, and justice for these victims will be harder to attain. On the other hand, reinstalling the statue would offer recognition of their suffering, help prevent future atrocities, and ensure that such history is never forgotten. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need for accountability and reparative action.

The urgency to reinstall the Comfort Women statue cannot be overstated. As the survivors age, there is limited time left to provide them with the dignity and justice they deserve. Moreover, in the face of rising historical revisionism and denialism, it is crucial to take a firm stand for truth and justice now. By reinstating the statue, the Philippines can reaffirm its commitment to honoring its history and advocating for human rights on the global stage.

Comfort women were women forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II, including many Filipinas. They endured immense suffering, and their fight for recognition and justice continues today.

The Statue is originally installed in December 2017 on Roxas Boulevard in Manila, the statue was removed in April 2018 under the Duterte administration, officially for drainage and roadworks, though many believe it was due to diplomatic pressure from Japan. 

Why We Should Reinstall It:

Historical Memory: The statue helps future generations remember the suffering of comfort women and the atrocities of war.

 Justice for Victims: Reinstalling it honors survivors’ ongoing struggle for recognition and justice.

Women's Rights: It symbolizes the fight against sexual violence in conflicts, advocating for women’s dignity.

Commemoration, Not Criticism: The statue commemorates women who suffered sexual slavery, not to criticize Japanese soldier.

This statue represents history, justice, and women's rights, and should not be erased to appease foreign interests.

Petition led by:

John Mark Tagarino,Janel Gammad,Ezha Gerardo, Bryan Quilang,Jasmine Alcala,Jezelle Manuel,Jhenica Cataina,Violanda Revilla