LONG LIVE LUIS “KA LOUIE” G. JALANDONI!
The Asia Pacific Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines expresses its highest tribute and deepest gratitude to Fr. Luis Gamboa Jalandoni, former Chairperson of the Negotiating Panel of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP). We also extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to the beloved family of Ka Louie. We join you in mourning the loss of a revolutionary leader, a faithful servant of the people, and a true advocate of peace and justice.
Fr. Jalandoni played a key role in the peace negotiations between the National Democratic Front and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines. His unwavering commitment to the pursuit of a just and lasting peace for the Filipino people is beyond measure. His life’s work stands as a testament to his deep love for the country and his tireless efforts to help realize a truly dignified and fulfilling life for all in the Philippines.
The life of Fr. Luis Jalandoni stands as a shining example of what it means to be both a revolutionary and a true Christian. Though he was born into a wealthy family in Negros, his eyes were opened to the harsh realities of poverty and landlessness faced by the Filipino people. In response, he chose the path of solidarity, personally distributing land to farmers.
Ordained as a priest during a time of great social unrest, he went to the countryside to learn firsthand the conditions of the peasantry. He joined their struggle, standing side by side with sugar workers and sacadas in their fight for land, justice, and dignity against the landlords
Ka Louie also played a key role in drafting and signing the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), a landmark agreement for the peace talks between the NDFP and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP). The signing of CARHRIHL was a major achievement, as it acknowledged the ongoing civil war in the Philippines and affirmed the application of the laws of armed conflict. However, despite this milestone, the GRP has repeatedly violated the terms of the agreement.
He also endured various forms of persecution under successive regimes. During the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., he was forced to go underground after being targeted by the state for persecution and arrest. Ka Louie and his wife were arrested in 1973. In order to continue his work, he went underground with his wife, Coni Ledesma, who is also a committed revolutionary. Together, they helped establish Christians for National Liberation – an organization of lay people and church workers dedicated to advancing the struggle for a national democratic society. Under the Duterte regime, he was once again vilified, unjustly designated as a terrorist, in a clear attempt to silence and discredit his decades-long advocacy for peace and social justice.
Ka Louie’s life was immeasurable in its impact. It was a life wholly devoted to the oppressed and exploited Filipino people, driven by profound love and solidarity. His journey embodies the true essence of being a Christian – one who offers his life in the pursuit of genuine freedom and liberation for all.
