BWI mourns death of Philippines’ human rights chair

The Building and Woodworkers’ International (BWI) joins the Filipino people in mourning the passing of Philippine Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chairperson Chito Gascon. 

Chito’s sudden passing is a big loss to BWI and the Philippine trade union movement. We lost a true working-class ally and one of the most hardworking and passionate defenders of democracy and human rights in the country and the region. 

Chito was a good friend of BWI. Under his steady leadership, his human rights office was a reliable partner of our Philippine trade union affiliates in defending labour rights and democracy against state tyranny. His unwavering solidarity strengthened working class unity.  

On behalf of our Philippine trade union affiliates, partners and allies, BWI extends its condolences to Chito’s family and friends. Our hearts go out to them during this very difficult time. We commit to continue Chito’s struggle for a better world. We will remember him and honour his death by fighting for the living.  

(Photo: Leaders of BWI and the Council of Global Unions [CGU] share a light moment with CHR Chairperson Chito Gascon in a 2019 CGU mission in the Philippines to probe the rampant extrajudicial killings in the country, which also target trade unionists.)