For the first time in a SONA mobilization, land reform advocates will carry a protest art installation inspired by the Higantes of Angono.

SAKA cultural group will bring a 14-ft tall Higantes dubbed as “Digna” — a peasant woman protesting the dire state of Filipino farmers. “Digna represents all farmers who are unflinchingly fighting; standing strong and brave amid the government’s anti-peasant attacks, and macho-fascist tirades over the past five years.”

Protest art installation Digna is a mixed media sculpture made from recycled materials. Digna means worthy and dignified. We claim and we announce – Digna is indeed worthy to till the land, her land as part of an arduous yet worthwhile struggle to pave the way for genuine progress, and a just and lasting peace.

Historically, the Higantes is traced back as a form of peasant protest. Records provide that the Higantes were used as ‘effigies’ of oppressive landlords and were symbolically toppled down by oppressed farmers.

This time, the one who has been long oppressed stands stall, reversing the play of power. With Digna, the peasantry is ready to end the now-isolated Duterte, clinging to power to escape accountability and punishment for his crimes against the peasants and the Filipino people. The woman peasant, with her sickle, will finally end the bloodshed and the reign of terror under an insatiable tyrant.

The artwork is Sama-samang Artista para sa Kilusang Agraryo’s (SAKA) contribution to the people’s protest titled, “Duterte Wakasan: Hatol ng Bayan, Araw ng Paghuhukom, Duterte Wakasan!,” taking place tomorrow along Commonwealth Ave., Quezon City.