PHILIPPINES: 'Free the KPD 12!'

MANILA — On September 18, the office of the Movement for National Democracy (KPD) was raided by the intelligence service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Twelve KPD leaders and staff were arrested.

The raid was led by General Calim Lim, known to be close to President Joseph Estrada. During the raid firearms, grenades and "subversive" documents were allegedly found.

The broad left coalition, the September 21 People's Committee, which organised demonstrations to commemorate the 28th anniversary of the declaration of martial law by former dictator Marcos, immediately demanded the release of the "KPD 12" at a press conference.

Speakers included representatives from the KPD, Sanlakas, the Socialist Party of Labor (SPP), BISIG and others. The coalition described the Estrada government's move as dangerous and recalled the period of martial law in the 1970s and '80s. Sonia Soto, chairperson of the KPD, described the raid as part of a military "reign of terror against progressive organisations".

Letters of solidarity with the KPD and demands for the release of the KPD 12 can be forwarded to the international department of the SPP at <reihana_m@yahoo.com.au> or <progresibo@yahoo.com>.

BY REIHANA MOHIDEEN

From GLW issue 422