Kabataang Makabayan-Southern Mindanao Region (KM-SMR) members celebrated the 56th anniversary of the New People’s Army (NPA). KM-SMR posted statements and stickers paying tribute to the people’s army in universities across Davao, the Dutertes’ stronghold, on the last week of March.

“The revolutionary spirit burns again in our hearts as youth [on the occasion of the NPA anniversary],” the region’s KM spokesperson Ka Karina Magtanggol stated. She said that despite the trials and challenges they face, their generation continues to play an important role in the struggle for genuine freedom and justice in the nation.

In its statement, KM-SMR honored and recognized the martyrs of the NPA in the region and country who wholeheartedly offered their lives for the higher purpose of freedom, justice, and social change. “We deeply value your excellence in advancing the democratic interests of the toiling masses against the rotten and semi-feudal system,” Ka Karina said.

Those honored by the group included Ka Lucas (Rendell Ryan Cagula). Ka Lucas, 23, was a young Red fighter who fell in battle in Maasim, Sarangani on November 4, 2014. A native of Davao City, he was known as a student leader in Southern Mindanao. Ka Lucas decided to join the people’s army in December 2013 and was assigned to a unit in Far South Mindanao Region.

“You tirelessly strengthened the movement in the field of media and information, you used your voice to convey to the masses the true conditions of the poor and oppressed. We also wholeheartedly thank you for your service to farmers and workers,” Ka Karina honored.

“Your lives were not wasted. You became living examples of courage, principle, and pure service to the people. As youth, we will continue what you started. With every step of our struggle, we remember the achievements and fight for a truly just, free, and abuse-free society,” Ka Karina stated.

Currently, KM-SMR continues to forge and develop new progressive leaders who will uphold the aspirations of the Filipino people, Ka Karina said. Despite state repression and continuous challenges, the youth in the region have persevered through the years under KM leadership.

The youth in Davao and other parts of Mindanao have been active in actions to fight for their rights and their communities. They have become partners of Mindanao people who continue to experience human rights violations – from militarization of communities to projects destructive to the environment and livelihood.

According to Ka Karina, with the NPA anniversary celebration, it is important to reflect on and revisit lessons learned by KM-SMR from past struggles. “Our unity and determination are key to building a just and patriotic society,” she said.

Ka Karina emphasized that the 56th anniversary of the NPA serves as a reminder that the youth struggle does not end but continuously advances, and “we will carry on.”