Viva Salud Welcomes Recognition of Dr. Ana Marie Rilloraza-Leung and Continue to call for Her Immediate Release his immediate release.
This distinction is a fitting tribute to Doc Ana's more than four decades of service as a community physician, environmental advocate, and defender of the rights and well-being of marginalized communities. Throughout her life, she has worked tirelessly alongside Indigenous Peoples, farmers, workers, and rural communities, demonstrating that healthcare is not only about treating illness, but also about addressing the social, environmental, and economic conditions that impact people's lives.
While Viva Salud joins many others in celebrating this well-deserved recognition, we are deeply troubled that Doc Ana was unable to personally receive the award because she remains detained. The recognition bestowed upon her only further underscores the profound contradiction between honoring her invaluable contributions to society and continuing to deprive her of her freedom. An award acknowledging her service to communities should compel reflection on why a respected physician and advocate remains behind bars despite her long record of serving the people. Why is a respected doctor and campaigner still being held in custody, despite her commitment to serving the public?
Providing care is not a crime
Viva Salud reiterates its call for the immediate release of Doc Ana and all those unjustly detained for their legitimate human rights, environmental, public health, and social justice work. We firmly believe that defending communities, promoting public health, protecting the environment, and advocating for people's rights are not crimes. Health workers should be recognized and protected for their essential contributions to society, not subjected to persecution, intimidation, or criminalization.
We find it particularly alarming that health workers, human rights defenders, trade union leaders, community organizers, and other advocates continue to face harassment, arbitrary arrests, detention, and legal reprisals for asserting their fundamental rights and standing with vulnerable communities. Such actions undermine democratic participation, weaken civic space, and create a climate of fear that discourages citizens from speaking out against injustice. When those who dedicate their lives to serving others are targeted, the rights and welfare of entire communities are put at risk.
The recognition awarded to Doc Ana affirms what countless communities have long known: her work has been a source of hope, dignity, and empowerment for those most often left behind. No detention cell can diminish the value of her contributions or silence the principles she represents. As we celebrate this important recognition, we also renew our call for justice. Doc Ana belongs with the communities she serves, not behind bars. Ana Marie Rilloraza-Leung belongs amongst the communities she serves, not behind bars.
Free Doc Ana. Defend Health Workers. Protect Human Rights. Ensure Accountability.
