More than 1,600 people gathered across various provinces and cities in the Cordillera, as well as outside the region, to mark the 42nd People’s Cordillera Day. The Cordillera People’s Alliance (CPA), its allied groups, supporters, and organizations defending indigenous peoples’ rights held activities and assemblies from April 22–25.

Activities were reportedly held in Mountain Province, Benguet, Baguio City, Kalinga, Abra, and Apayao. Celebrations and solidarity actions were also held in Metro Manila, Canada, Hong Kong, and the US. The activities each had distinct features and highlighted different issues but united around the central theme: Defend Our Rights to Land, Life, and Livelihood.

“As we commemorate the 42nd Peoples’ Cordillera Day through decentralized activities, we are compelled to foreground the impacts and implications of the global crisis to our communities, our homes, and down to our guts,” the CPA said.

The gatherings tackled issues of high oil prices and the economic crisis, destructive renewable energy projects, mining and dam operations and the land grabbing tied to them, and human rights violations and militarization in communities that resist. The events also honored the region’s martyrs and heroes.

The Marcos regime’s armed forces carried out relentless threats, harassment, and intimidation at the height of the activities. CPA reported that these incidents were recorded in Benguet, Mountain Province, and Apayao. Tarpaulins maligning People’s Cordillera Day were also reportedly spread in other towns. “These attempts, however, did not deter the hosts and attendees from moving forward with the events,” the CPA said.

Unity, solidarity, and determination in the Cordillera people’s struggle were strengthened as the celebrations concluded. “We need strength, courage, and perseverance as we stand against big businesses, foreign corporations, and even the Marcos Jr administration,” the CPA said.

It called on members, chapters, and allied organizations to organize, intensify protests, and build stronger unity with fellow oppressed and exploited Filipino people. The CPA added that many tasks remain ahead, but it is ready to carry them out and win victories.

Cordillera youth responded positively to these calls. “We are the inheritors of the struggle and the ones who will carry forward the spirit of unity and resistance,” Anakbayan-Cordillera said. The group added that youth participation in People’s Cordillera Day shows that it is not merely a memory of the past, but a living struggle in the present.

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