The Manila Critics Circle (MCC) denounces in the strongest possible terms the Red-tagging and vandalism of two bookstores, Popular Bookstore and Solidaridad Bookshop.
Each bookstore had their storefronts defaced with graffiti in red paint accusing them of being an “NPA front.”
Such malicious vandalism is an attack on the right to free speech, the right to think for oneself, and the right to choose what they wish to read. Such graffiti threatens the owners, employees, and customers of these bookstores.
The MCC urges the authorities concerned to act immediately on these threatening acts of Red-tagging. People should feel safe going to the bookstore, and they should not have their freedom to avail themselves of the literature of their choosing curtailed in any way. These businesses should neither be threatened nor should the people they employ.
MANILA CRITICS CIRCLE