VARIOUS youth groups sought the defunding of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict following the red-tagging of some students in Cordillera.

1Sambayan Youth Convenor Rae Reposa said that the budget allotted for the task force can instead be used for social services.

The Student Christian Movement of the Philippines lamented that workers who endure low wages also face the threat of attacks from the NTF-ELCAC.

“Hindi lamang barat na sahod at masahol na paggawa ang kinahaharap ng mga manggagawa. Kumakaharap din sila sa mga banta at masahol na atake mula sa NTF-ELCAC,” said the group’s national spokesperson Kej Andres.

“Wala silang pinipiling sektor. Kahit ang mga abogado at taong simbahan ay nakatatanggap ng mga parehong banta,” Andres added.

Meanwhile, youth leaders urged the Filipino youth to “take their rage to the streets” on September 21.

Carwyn Candila, national spokesperson for the League of Filipino Students, said that September 21 is more than just a day to remember Martial Law. It also demonstrates the growing opposition to the Duterte regime’s oppression and fascism.

The 49th anniversary of martial law will be commemorated in Liwasang Bonifacio by human rights and youth organizations.