DLSU-CoNIC: Ka Rene, Tuloy po ang Laban!

The De La Salle University-Manila Committee on National Issues and Concerns (DLSU CoNIC) condemns in the strongest terms the murder of Sumilao peasant leader Ka Rene Peňas. He was killed last June 05 at around 11pm by unidentified assailants. Ka Rene led his fellow farmers and peasant organizations in many land disputes. He was also one of the prominent peasant leaders who untiringly campaigned for the passage of Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPER) Bill. 

For his fellow farmers, Ka Rene’s death does not end his fight for meaningful agrarian reform. Instead of being cowed, this brutal incident inspires farmers and other support groups to continue Ka Rene’s long and arduous quest for social justice.   

Since the historic 1,700-kilometer march of Sumilao farmers in 2007, Ka Rene has inspired many Lasallians who have been witness to his unfaltering courage and infectious passion for agrarian reform and social justice. His sense of humor and warm smile would always remind student volunteers that hope is near amidst all the cynicism and injustice in the ruling system. 

As an institution that has been part of Ka Rene’s journey, we now join many organizations in calling for a serious and objective investigation on this ruthless incident. We likewise call on the national and local government officials to make sure that the killers and masterminds of this senseless murder will be brought to justice.  

Indeed, Ka Rene’s life is an epitome of selfless heroism. This shall strengthen and deepen our resolve to journey with the farmers as they struggle for social development that is founded on social justice. 

Ka Rene, tuloy po ang laban!