Justice for Trans Rights Activist: The Tragic Murder of Ali Jejhon Macalintal
The Shocking Murder in General Santos City
On June 23, 2025, the southern Philippines witnessed a tragic event as Ali Jejhon Macalintal, a well-known transgender rights activist, was shot multiple times by a hooded gunman in her acupuncture clinic in General Santos City. This brutal hate crime murder has raised alarm bells within the LGBTQ+ community and among human rights advocates across the globe.
Ali Macalintal’s Legacy of Activism
At the age of 39, Ali was not just a transgender woman but a fierce advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, Muslims, and indigenous peoples in Mindanao. Her commitment to human rights was evident during her tenure as deputy-secretary general of the human rights group Karapatan, where her activism brought awareness to the challenges faced by marginalised communities. Reports indicate that she faced harassment and threats for her work, yet she remained undeterred and continued speaking out against injustices.
Call for Accountability
Human Rights Watch has called for a thorough investigation into Ali’s murder, highlighting the potential link between her death and her activism. Carlos Conde, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, remarked that her killing is a reminder of the grave risks that activists face in the Philippines. He emphasized the necessity for the authorities to ensure that justice is served and that the motives behind this targeted killing are fully investigated.
The murder of Ali Jejhon Macalintal represents a significant loss for the fight for human rights in the Philippines, especially for transgender individuals facing systemic discrimination. It is essential for the government to take strong actions to protect activists and uphold their rights, demonstrating a commitment to human rights for all.