More than 60 Kabataang Makabayan (KM) members from various chapters in universities, schools, and communities boldly marched on Earnshaw Avenue, Sampaloc, Manila on March 31 to celebrate the 56th anniversary of the New People’s Army (NPA).

“Kabataang Makabayan honors the red commanders and fighters of the New People’s Army. KM also celebrates all proletarian revolutionary youth who serve in the NPA and the people who resist,” KM spokesperson Maria Laya Guerrero said.

She added that the significance of the army’s anniversary for the people and youth suffering from the crisis of semicolonialism and semifeudalism cannot be overstated. “An increasing number of youth recognize that the only solution to the crisis, and to bring about a more prosperous and just future, is people’s war,” she said.

During the march, KM members carried painted portraits of Jose Maria Sison, Benito Tiamzon, and Wilma Austria-Tiamzon. KM paid tribute to these three valiant leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), along with many others who sacrificed their lives and time for advancing the Philippine revolution.

The group also recognized and honored all young martyrs who fell while participating in armed struggle. Among them were Kevin “Ka Facio” Castro, Queenie “Ka Kira” Daraman, Arc John “Ka Hunter” Varon, Lennel “Ka Morga” Domanais, Joshua “Ka Kiko” Regalado, Angelo “Ka Kaloy” del Rosario, Markus “Ka Reb” Tayco, Royce “Ka Alex” Magtira, Baby Jane “Ka Binhi” Orbe, Asaze “Ka Shyla” Galang, Archie “Ka Ron” Arceta, Hannah “Ka Maya” Cesista—revolutionary youth martyrs from recent years.

“KM will remember the example of heroes and martyrs who gave everything for the revolutionary aspirations of the Filipino proletariat—selflessly advancing people’s war, faithfully serving the masses, and resolutely fighting against the US-Marcos II regime,” Ka Maria Laya said.