History The NPA was established by Jose Maria Sison, who also founded the re-established CPP, and Bernabe Buscayno, also known as Kumander Dante. It emerged from a split with the old Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (PKP) and drew inspiration from the Chinese Communist Revolution.
- Early Years (1969-1970s): The NPA gained significant strength during the martial law era under President Ferdinand Marcos, attracting recruits due to widespread poverty, social injustice, and human rights abuses by the state.
- Growth and Expansion (1980s): The NPA reached its peak strength in the mid-1980s, estimated to have tens of thousands of armed combatants and a widespread underground network. It controlled significant rural territories and conducted various offensives.
- Decline and Purges (Late 1980s-1990s): Internal ideological purges within the CPP-NPA, known as "Operation Missing Link" and "Kadena de Amor," led to the execution of thousands of alleged government infiltrators and a significant decline in its ranks and public support. The collapse of the Soviet Union and the decline of global communism also impacted the movement.
- 21st Century: The NPA has continued its insurgency, albeit with reduced numbers, focusing on targeted attacks, extortion ("revolutionary taxes"), and ambushes. Various peace talks with different Philippine administrations have been initiated and subsequently collapsed.
Ideology and Goals The NPA adheres to Marxism-Leninism-Maoism. Its primary goals include:
- Overthrowing the existing Philippine government.
- Establishing a socialist state.
- Implementing genuine agrarian reform.
- Combating "imperialism, feudalism, and bureaucrat capitalism."
- Achieving national liberation and democracy for the Filipino people.
Tactics and Operations The NPA employs guerrilla warfare tactics, including:
- Ambushes and raids on government security forces (military and police).
- Assassinations of perceived enemies and government officials.
- Arson and destruction of properties belonging to companies that refuse to pay "revolutionary taxes."
- Extortion of businesses and landowners.
- Recruitment and political education among farmers, indigenous communities, and youth in rural areas.
Structure and Organization The NPA functions as the armed wing of the CPP, which provides political and ideological direction. Its command structure is hierarchical, with a central committee overseeing regional commands, front committees, and local platoons. The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) serves as the political umbrella organization for various revolutionary groups, including the CPP and NPA, engaging in peace negotiations and international advocacy.
Designations The New People's Army is designated as a terrorist organization by:
- The Philippines
- The United States
- The European Union
- Canada
- The United Kingdom
- Australia
- New Zealand