Artists and Advocates Unite: Calling for an End to State Terrorism Against Farmers

Writers Panel, from left to right - Ronnel Vivo, Angelo Suarez, Mike Alcazaren

In the wake of the tragic Himamaylan Massacre that claimed the lives of farmers Crispin Tingal Jr. and the Fausto Family, an urgent call for justice and an end to state terrorism against farmers and fisherfolk resonated throughout the country. Artista ng Rebolusyong Pangkultura (ARPAK), a group of artists and advocates, took the initiative to raise awareness about these heinous acts by organizing the "BUGLAS: An Anti-Fascist Artist Fair." Held on July 29 at AltFunc in Quezon City, this event served as a platform for artists to speak out against the atrocities and play a crucial role in forging a culture that resists and disrupts tyrannical rule.

The Himamaylan Massacre left a scar on the hearts of many. On May 3, 2023, and June 14, 2023, the brutal killings of Crispin Tingal Jr. and four members of the Fausto family were attributed to the 94th Infantry Battalion. The Fausto family had endured harassment and intimidation by soldiers for an extended period leading up to the tragic events. These acts of violence and terror against innocent farmers have sparked outrage and prompted the demand for justice and accountability.

At the heart of the event was the call for action against the prevailing state terrorism and the oppressive laws that enable such atrocities to persist. Elise Ofilada, representing ARPAK, addressed the audience, denouncing Marcos Jr. for sustaining laws like Memorandum Order 32, Executive Order 70, NTF-ELCAC, and the "Anti-Terror" Terror Law, which has proven to be anti-people, allowing state forces to violate human rights with impunity, especially in rural areas.

The first part of the program featured a panel of peasant leaders providing a comprehensive situational update. Butch Lozande, spokesperson of Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (UMA) and secretary-general of the National Federation of Sugar Workers (NFSW), along with Ronnel Arambulo, Vice Chairman of Pambansang Lakas ng Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA), and a spokesperson from Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP), discussed recent developments, including the national fact-finding mission for the Himamaylan Massacre, the struggle for a fair minimum wage for sugar mill workers, and the challenges faced by local farmers competing against imports of essential goods.

The second part of the event featured artist speakers who shed light on the role of art in times of oppression. Angelo Suarez, co-writer of "Patay Kung Patay," Mike Alcazaren, and Ronnel Vivo, co-founder of UNGAZ Press, discussed militant art-making and its power to challenge fascism. Visual artist Ian of Makò Micro-Press shared insights into self-publishing zines and other DIY artworks that aim to create and sustain counter-hegemonic cultures.

Throughout the day, the crowd was stirred by the powerful performances of Showtime Official Club, amat_jamal + BEDSPACER, and Switchbitch, who expressed their solidarity with ARPAK and their call for justice for the slain Negros farmers. Merchant booths showcased various artistic creations, including books, zines, stickers, handmade jewelry, and merchandise reflecting the struggles of the peasant community.

The "BUGLAS: An Anti-Fascist Artist Fair" not only served as a platform for artists to raise their voices against state terrorism but also acted as a fundraiser to sustain the Defend Negros campaign. ARPAK, together with the peasant sector, continues to demand justice for all the victims of state terrorism in Negros. By combining art with activism, these artists and advocates strive to bring about meaningful change and create a society that values the rights and lives of its farmers and fisherfolk. Together, they stand united, fighting for justice, accountability and end the cycle of violence that has plagued the nation's heartland.