Gabriela Youth, together with Gabriela, Gabriela Women’s Party, Kilusan ng Manggagawang Kababaihan (KMK), Lila Pilipina, and Bahaghari, launch a lightning rally to oppose the biggest Balikatan exercises that will drag Filipino women and people into the war instigated by the US in China.

The largest Balikatan exercises will take place from April 22, 2024, until May 18, 2024. Every year, more dangerous weapons are tested and more US soldiers are stationed at EDCA bases.

“Gabriela Youth, along with other women anti-imperialist groups, are at the gates of the US Embassy to express our grave dissent against Balikatan exercises and how US and other foreign military troops have been using the Philippines as a playground in its war games, especially in the West Philippine Sea. It is clear to the militant youth that we don’t want history to repeat itself. We must safeguard the liberties of Filipino women against the terror of ruthless imperialists,” said Shaye Ganal, national spokesperson for Gabriela Youth.

“Much like his dictator father, Marcos Jr. is obviously a puppet of the US. Filipino citizens have been carrying the brunt of his anti-poor policies since he’s been in office. With the skyrocketing of tuition fees and prices of goods, more students have no option but to work to survive. And while we lack adequate and quality educational facilities, more EDCA sites are built,” Ganal stated.
 
“How are the youth expected to learn and thrive under these social realities? Why are we the ones begging for decent living conditions and basic social services in our own country? What future is there for us young women without sovereignty and autonomy?” Ganal questioned.

“Gabriela Youth says no to another generation of young women, children, and LGBTQ+ who experience abuse and violence. We call on our fellow youth to enjoin our protests against the US-Marcos-Duterte administration, especially with the looming threat of Mandatory ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps), which will force us to become pawns in the imperialist war games instigated by the US. Let us collectively advance the struggle for our national sovereignty!” Ganal concluded.