Popular Front The Philippine's Maoist Guerrillas are Making a Comeback
Feb 14, 2025
Georgi Engelbrecht, a Senior analyst at Crisis Group specializing in the New People's Army, discusses the surprising resurgence of Maoist guerrillas in the Philippines. He delves into the historical roots of the New People's Army, exploring their ongoing recruitment drives amid socio-political injustices. Engelbrecht highlights the brutal tactics employed by the NPA and the complex relationship between the government and guerrillas, revealing the evolving strategies in guerrilla warfare and the challenges faced in their fight for change.
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NPA Origins
- The New People's Army (NPA) originated in the late 1960s, succeeding a post-WWII rural insurgency.
- Filipino fighters initially resisted Japanese occupation, then fought against landlords with US assistance ultimately quelling the unrest.
NPA Persistence
- The NPA's numbers have dwindled since President Duterte's crackdown in 2018.
- Despite this, they persist due to deep-seated socio-economic issues and injustices fueling resistance.
Youth & NPA
- Youth are drawn to the NPA not solely due to poverty, but by perceived injustice and dynastic control.
- They feel unheard in a system where a few families control most of the nation's wealth, seeking change and alternative governance.