The Maverick of the Proletarians - by Erwin R. Puhawan

The Maverick of the Proletarians” 

Today marks the 12th year death anniversary of Filemon “Ka Popoy” Lagman. Feared by the abusive capitalist class but admired by the working class. As a former student leader turned revolutionary, the works of Ka Popoy inspired many revolutionaries to take the challenge and take the path of the revolution unconditionally.

His idea of a strong and independent workers movement gave the workers an opportunity to lead and be the vanguard class. Under his guidance, the establishment of the Kapatiran ng Mga Pangulo ng Unyon sa Pilipinas (KPUP) Brotherhood of Union Presidents in the Philippines broke the barriers between rival unions. His effort to organize the first Labor Party in the Philippines Partido ng Manggawa (PM) is an attempt to put the working class as a strong political force.

The killing of Ka Popoy shall not stop the working class from continuing the struggle. With the onslaught of Globalization and the continued political circus in the government of “hacienderos” the need for a strong independent working class movement should be the primary trust. 

The issue of poverty, the disintegration of trade unions, and continued political harassment and killings of activist , the demolitions will only prove that the present administration is not for the working class. The issue of PALEA is one indicia that the present Administration cannot and will not defend the interest of the masses.

This is a clear indicia that social injustice exist and continued to exist unless the entire working class will be emancipated and from their chains of slavery and oppression. His killing will clearly show that the perpetrators are nothing but cowards and mindless barbarians. His death should not be the end of a legacy but a start of a strong proletarian movement .

JUSTICE FOR KA POPOY! JUSTICE FOR THE WORKING CLASS!

Erwin R. Puhawan

Former National Chairperson 

KAMPI (Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Manggagawang Pilipino)

(Solidarity of Sons and Daughters of the Working Class)