A unit of the New People’s Army (NPA)-Bicol successfully launched a Batayang Kurso ng Partido (BKP) (Basic Party Course) last July. A squad of new and old Red fighters and members finished the course. The study was conducted in a staggered manner to adapt as the area is heavily militarized.

The BKP is important in strengthening the ideological foundation of the Party members and the new Red fighters of the people’s army, NPA officials said. This is a response to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)’s call for greater efforts in advancing the people’s democratic revolution.

The unit said the successful conduct of the study proves that no military operation can crush the revolutionary school. It added that the activity was a slap in the face against the Marcos regime especially after it declared its plan to end the insurgency in the region after June.

“It raises morale, steels one’s readiness for sacrifice and hardship because it renewed and deepened one’s understanding of the need and justness of the revolution. The students also showed their geuine desire to learn,” Ka Speed, one of the course refresher students, said.

Ka Velma shared her experience of teaching BKP for the first time. “I felt nervous when I was assigned to teach, as well as during teaching but I managed to cope. I still have a lot to improve but I am proud to have been an instructor and I am proud of my comrades!” she said.

The unit held a program to formally close the course. Together the Red fighters sang revolutionary songs and renewed their oath before the Party flag.