KM condemns killing of 4 youths in Davao

Andres Guerrero II
National Spokesperson
Kabataang Makabayan
September 24, 2003

The Kabataang Makabayan (KM) vehemently condemned the killing of Lito Doydoy, Marjorie Reynoso, Jonathan Benaro and Ramon Regase, members of Anakbayan, Anak ng Bayan Youth Party and SK, by military elements. Their bodies, bearing stab wounds and torture marks, were found dumped in a quarry area in Compostela Valley on September 22.

"We pay tribute to the four young martyrs who have been snuffed of their lives which had and could have contributed much for the advancement of the interests of the Filipino masses. We likewise give our warmest condolences to their families and friends who mourn for their passing," Andres Guerrero II, KM national spokesperson, stated.

The spokesperson stated that, "The summary execution of the militant youth leaders by assets of the Military Intelligence Group (MIG) is a clear expression of the Macapagal-Arroyo regime's shameless and utter deceitfulness to the youth sector. The practice of state terrorism being perpetrated by the Macapagal-Arroyo regime and its military institution against the people is taking its toll on the country's youth."

Guerrero cited the case of Benjaline Hernandez, a 22-year old student journalist in Davao who was likewise summarily executed last year by military and CAFGU elements, among a list of youth leaders and activists who have become prey to state terrorism. Hernandez' perpetrators have been declared not guilty.

"The reactionary regime, in its all-out war against the CPP-NPA-NDF, is sowing terror among the youth and the people in its attempt to stop the advance of the revolutionary movement. Not only in Mindanao, more troops have been deployed in NPA areas and are launching severe military operations that immediately target civilians and the legal democratic movement," Guerrero said.

"This roguish containment of the optimism and fervor of the progressive youth by a fearful regime is contrary to the revolutionary movement's cultivation of its youth. The reality is that the Macapagal-Arroyo regime dreads the increasing and strengthening revolutionary movement which many youth have come to fully embrace."

According to Guerrero, instead of sending an ominous warning to the progressive youth movement, the death of the four martyrs shall continue to inspire others to join the revolutionary movement.

"In the face of heightened repression and militarization, the youth shall not waiver in its conviction. It only strengthens its resolve to fight an anti-youth and anti-people regime. In the revolutionary struggle, the youth shall win its future," Guerrero ended. ###

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