James Taylor will not perform in Manila next year, canceling his planned Philippines show because of the countrys violent anti-drug crusade.
I dont think of my music as being particularly political but sometimes one is called upon to make a political stand,Taylor wrote in a statement on his website.
The scourge of addiction is a worldwide problem and does serious harm, not only to the addict but to our society.
Credit: Jason Shaltz
For a sovereign nation to prosecute and punish, under the law, those responsible for the illegal trade in drugs is, of course, understandable, even commendable; but recent reports from the Philippines of summary executions of suspected offenders without trial or judicial process are deeply concerning and unacceptable to anyone who loves the rule of law.
The singer, 68, added a heartfelt apology to his fans while canceling the Feb. 25 show, and noted that ticket buyers will receive a full refund.
Since becoming the countrys president in June, Rodrigo Duterte has initiated awar on illegal drug use, which has left more than 6,000 people dead.
This week, the United Nations human rights commission pushed for an investigation into Duterte after he claimed to havepersonally killedcriminals in his time as mayor of Davao City.
