On the occasion of Human Rights Day, the Netherlands Embassy recognized Filipino artist collective, Dakila with the 2nd Embassy Tulip Award for Human Rights, in a reception hosted by Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts in her residence.

Explaining the reason behind bestowing this award, Ambassador Geraedts said that it is meant to 'recognize outstanding organizations that promote human rights in peaceful ways, especially for their innovation and creativity.'

She also said that the award 'seeks to support human rights defenders with visibility and a broader platform for engagement and critical discussions.'

Through this award, the Dutch Embassy hopes it adds a layer of protection especially against extraordinary harassment or threat, as it assures continued monitoring and support for their work.

Dakila is an artist-activist collective that has pioneered 'creative resistance' and harnessing the power of arts, media and popular culture in popularizing human rights and democratic values in the Philippines. Since it was founded 17 years ago, it has created a community of artists and activists of all ages that integrates Filipino culture and values in countering efforts to discredit human rights work, and in reclaiming and shaping the human rights movement.