03/07/2026
LIBERAL YOUTH - ISABELA
OFFCIAL STATEMENT
On the alleged red-tagging remarks during the PNUNL Anti-Terrorism Seminar
2 July, 2026
Liberal Youth – Isabela expresses deep concern over the alleged statements made during the Community Anti-Terrorism Awareness and “Knowing the Enemy” Seminar held at Philippine Normal University North Luzon on July 2, 2026.
We recognize the importance of civic awareness, peace, and security. However, these discussions must always uphold academic freedom, human dignity, and the constitutional rights of students. Schools must remain safe spaces where the youth can ask questions, think critically, and take part in social issues without fear.
We are alarmed by reports that some remarks appeared to connect student idealism, intelligence, activism, and university affiliation with recruitment or membership in the New People’s Army. Such statements may create fear and stigma among students, especially those who exercise their right to speak, organize, join rallies, and criticize corruption.
As Ilocano youth, we believe that panag-saludsod is not a crime. To question is part of learning. To speak is part of democracy. To care for the country is part of being a responsible umili.
We also condemn any language that dehumanizes people, including the alleged remark comparing dead persons to “toasted na manok.” Regardless of political conflict, public discourse, especially inside an academic institution, must respect life and human dignity.
We commend the students who bravely raised their concerns during the open forum. Their courage reflects the true purpose of education: to seek truth, defend rights, and promote responsible citizenship. Agyaman kami to the students who chose to speak with clarity, courage, and principle.
We acknowledge the clarification of the speakers that not all individuals who attend rallies are members of the NPA and that everyone has the right to freedom of speech. Still, such clarification must be matched with responsible language, careful framing, and respect for the youth, especially when discussing activism and national security.
Liberal Youth – Isabela calls on school administrators, organizers, and concerned agencies to ensure that future seminars on peace and security are balanced, rights-based, and free from statements that may lead to red-tagging or unfair labeling.
We stand with the students of PNUNL and with all young Filipinos who continue to ask questions, oppose injustice, and work for a better nation. Ti kabataan ket saan a kabusor. Ti panagpampanunot ket saan a peligro. Ti panagsao ket wayawaya.
To question is not rebellion. To speak is not terrorism. To serve the people is not a crime.
