The revolutionary movement honored young Red fighter Danielle Marie Pelagio, known as Ka Nieves, Ka Luna, Ka Isla and Ka Seed, who fell in a defensive battle on September 11 in Baliuag, Peñablanca, Cagayan. Martyred with her were two other New People’s Army (NPA)-Cagayan Valley fighters and Communist Party of the Philippines officials in the region.

In a statement, the Regional Committee of the Party in Cagayan Valley expressed its deep sorrow and condolences to the family, friends and acquaintances of Ka Seed. “Her spirit and memory will live forever,” the committee said.

Ka Seed was born on July 4, 1996 to a petty-bourgeois family. The youngest of three siblings, she grew up in an affluent and comfortable life. Writing essays and creative plays since childhood, she became a great artist, writer and poet.

She acquired a BA Theater Arts diploma from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)-Sta. Mesa. After graduating, she immediately worked full time and lived among Cavite farmers and fisherfolk. In March 2020, she decided to join the NPA in Cagayan Valley.

A week after joining the people’s army, she took up the Political-Military Basic Course (BKPM) where she was recognized as one of the best trainees. After this, she immediately immersed herself in mass work and military work.

“She at once witnessed here the class exploitation of Cagayan people and realized the need for a revolutionary army that will truly promote and defend the interests of the people,” the Regional Committee said. From here she decided to become a full-time warrior.

“What other basis can there be to finally embrace the path of armed struggle? The concrete condition of farmers and national minorities is very clear—they do not have their own land and are constantly being abused by the state,” Ka Seed said.

While in the army, she served as a medical officer in the NPA unit and diligently established barrio medical groups (BMG) in the communities she visited. She also served as an official in the organization of the Party unit she belongs to.

“Like many young people who chose to devote their lives, energy, talent and time to the liberation of the oppressed class, Ka Seed’s spirit and memory are on the pedestal of history. She is an inspiration to many young people who are constantly being oppressed by the state, youths with aborted dreams, and youths struggling for social emancipation,” the committee said.