Manually Open tailgate / hatch / lid

[Saviguel]

Hello! I have a 2006 Cayenne S and am attempting to manually open the rear tailgate since it is not opening using the handle above license plate (The rear window does open using the FOB). When I press on the handle it makes a noise but tailgate does not open. From time to time since it first started occurring you would be able to actually open tailgate but it would later on fail again.
Attempted to open manually from the inside but not sure how to pull/push lever and I am afraid of breaking mechanism. Have to open to replace a burned tailgate light since be having a State Inspection and car will not pass otherwise.
Help!!