discussed and to make sure that they attend.

Make an agenda or list of topics for discussion and send these to the members. See to it that members prepare for meetings. Let them know what reports, investigations, or readings have to be done as a preparation. Before the meeting the group can have a preliminary discussion of the agenda. Part of the preparations for the meeting is to make arrangements for the place, security, food, and other things needed. In running a meeting, make sure that important points are immediately taken up. Avoid wandering into other extraneous matters too much or sidestepping into unnecessary discussions. In taking up important points immediately we make sure that the meeting is finished at once and the discussions are fruitful. Try to see that there is a balanced participation in the discussions by the members and avoid letting a few monopolize the discussion. From time to time summarize the discussion so that all can see what has been reached.

A REVOLUTIONARY ACTIVIST KOURSE ARAK

Six Lessons

QUALITIES OF A REVOLUTIONARY REVOLUTIONARY STUDY THE CORRECT METHOD OF ANALYSIS THE MASS LINE DEMOCRATIC CENTRALISM THE COMMITTEE SYSTEM

ARAK / LESSON 6

Lesson One

QUALITIES A REVOLUT

4. HOW CAN WE CONTINUE IMPROVING THE COLLECTIVE OPERATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE?

among members. This common understanding and perception of different topics and events can be developed thru joint discussions and studies and on-going exchanges of information. This will hasten mutual understanding and unity among members. We should cultivate openness towards one another. Problems and other things that the comrades should attend to should be placed on the table, not kept secret. When it concerns important matters, we should not wait for meetings before bringing up opinions, problems, or recommendations. It is destructive of unity when a comrade is silent during meetings or in the presence of those concerned and then afterwards backbites or throws criticisms outside of the meeting. We must learn to build unity with members of our collective, learn to work together with them even though we may not feel personally at ease with some of our companions. Building a clique or a small group of friends within the collective weakens and erodes the unity of the group. We should be concerned for and support on another. We should be on the watch for whatever destroys the unity and collective work of the committee. Meetings are an important part of the work of a committee. The group works ideas collectively here and decides what things are needed to advance the objectives of the organization. In the meetings the committee collectively investigates the situation in order to come out with a decision, plan and program of action. In the meetings collective leadership is given living expression and the unity of the committee is built. It is the task of the committee to set and follow a system of meetings. The unit should have a regularly schedule of meetings. Too frequent or too many meetings should be avoided. The higher organ and the committee itself decides on the frequency of assessments of work, the preparation or reports, the planning and programming of work and other things that need to be discussed in a meeting. We should also avoid meetings that are too long. This happens when meetings are few, when preparations are not done well or the meeting is not managed well. Make sure that notices of meetings reach the members. This is necessary so that members can prepare for things to be

5. WHAT SHOULD WE PAY ATTENTION TO SO THAT WE CAN IMPROVE OUR MEETINGS?

THE COMMITTEE SYSTEM / 38

cannot do his/her tasks. This is to make sure that the work of the committee is not crippled or dislocated if the secretary is gone. If the organization is still new and small, one deputy secretary is enough. When the organization expands, the committee will get bigger and its tasks will be heavier. At this stage we usually assign a member to take charge of every important aspect of work. Depending on the needs, we assign an officer for organization, education, finance, etc.

THE SECRETARIAT

Thru the secretariat, the secretary is able to do the work collectively of day to day administration of the organization. Usually it is composed of the secretary, the deputy secretary, the secretary for organization or propaganda-education. The secretariat is not a separate leadership and above the committee. It is guided by the policies and program of the committee. The secretariat calls and prepares for the committee meetings. It may give recommendations to be discussed and decided upon by the whole unit.

S OF TIONARY
1. Why is it important to remold ourselves as revolutionaries? How does a revolutionary view his/ her work and responsibilities for the revolution? What is the correct attitude towards hardships, sacrifices and death? 4. What is the correct attitude towards the masses? How should we treat our comrades in the struggle? What is the correct attitude towards criticism and self-criticism? 2. 5. 6. 3.

FINANCE OFFICER
He/She oversees the finance work of the unit. He/She sees to it that the finance plans of the unit are implemented. The finance officer collects membership dues, pledges and other material support. He/She gives finance reports and develops members for finance work.

SECURITY OFFICER
He/She looks after the security of the organization. It is his/ her responsibility to make sure that security policies of the unit are implemented. To strengthen the collective operations of the committee it is important to develop unity, mutual concern and the spirit of helping one another among the members. In this way each one will feel at ease with one another and it will be easy to follow the principle of collective leadership in their work. We should give importance to building a common language

ARAK / LESSON 6

1. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO REMOLD OURSELVES AS REVOLUTIONARIES?

As revolutionaries, it is our duty to focus our thinking, feelings and actions according to the national democratic interests of Filipino people. However, each of us carries within ourselves the ideas and habits prevalent in the old and decadent society. We grew up in this society, which is dominated by the oppressive and exploitative classes. Even now we continue to be inf luenced by the backward ideas of this old society. Thus it is essential for every revolutionary to be always conscious of remolding himself/herself. We remold ourselves thru revolutionary practice and conscious struggle with regards to our attitudes, habits and actions. If we persevere in performing our duties for the revolution, and remain vigilant against our own mistakes and weaknesses, we will surely temper ourselves in the storm of our peoples struggle against the oppressors. This way we become more steadfast and effective in carrying out the revolution. Changing ones attitudes and habits is not accomplished in a matter of hours or days. It is a long, arduous and often painful process. It requires that we wage continual struggle against every remaining inf luence of the old and corrupt society. This way we improve our revolutionary work and strengthen our determination to advance the peoples democratic revolution until complete victory. By the process of conscious self-remolding we are able to develop the best qualities of a revolutionary: Serious, thorough and enthusiastic style of work / A readiness and courage to face sacrifices and death / Closeness with the masses in the spirit of serving them / A warm feeling and readiness to unite with all comrades / An open attitude towards criticism and the willingness to correct weaknesses and mistakes. A revolutionary places high value on his/her tasks and responsibilities for the revolution. He/She realizes that his/her work forms part of our noble mission to liberate the people from the yoke of exploitation and oppression. To value ones work is to uphold the revolutionary interest of the Filipino people. A revolutionary who values his/her tasks and responsibilities is characterized as follows: He/She is serious and thorough in performing his/her work. He/She is cheerful and enthusiastic, always willing to take on any task necessary to advance the revolution. A revolutionary is conscientious with his/her work. For him, revolutionary responsibilities come first. He/

work of the organization and the committee. They discuss the results of the work, especially if there are problems and changes in the situation that have to be attended to. They help each other in the preparing for and announcing meetings. Each member makes sure that meetings are run well and misunderstandings during the process are clarified. Each member has initiative in doing whatever tasks are assigned.

THE SECRETARY
The secretary leads the committee. He/She mainly oversees it operations. He/She constantly looks for ways in which the committee can fulfill its tasks and work effectively. He/She makes sure that its unity is strong and it is working well as a collective. He/She checks up on the work of each member and the implementation of tasks to make sure that decisions are carried out well. He/She immediately investigates and consults members on any problems that my crop up or any changes in the situation that need acting upon. The secretary leads in the work, in implementing decisions and solving problems. In this way, he/she is in the best position to oversee and unify the collective work of the group. He/ She constantly tries to improve the unity among members of the collective to make sure that members are marching in step to do their work effectively. As a leader the secretary follow up the work of the members to make sure that committee decisions are implemented. He/ She guides and helps each one in his/her tasks. In leading the work he/she shows by example the correct attitudes and methods of work. But his/her leadership does not mean that he/she is superior to and above the committee and its members. His voice and rights are equal to that of the members. He/She has no special privileges and it is his/her responsibility to follow collective decisions. He/She also has to be criticized for any mistakes he/she may make. The secretary calls the meeting of the secretariat and presides over secretariat and committee meetings.

2. HOW DOES A REVOLUTIONARY VIEW HIS/HER WORK AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE REVOLUTION?

DEPUTY SECRETARY
Assigning a deputy secretary is a way of helping one another and dividing the work within the committee. He/She takes the place of the secretary if for some reason or other the latter
THE COMMITTEE SYSTEM / 36

ARAK / LESSON 1

1. WHAT IS THE COLLECTIVE LEADERSHIP?

Collective leadership is the living application of the principle of democratic centralism in the operations of all units in a revolutionary organization. It teaches the units to operate as collectives. All important decisions are discussed and implemented collectively. Thru collective leadership a wide base of democratic participation of the members can be truly represented. The leadership can more correctly grasp the situation and the problems facing the organization. Thus leading committees can stand as strong united centers of leadership of a revolutionary organization. Thru collective leadership the efforts of members are harnessed together to accomplish their tasks effectively. It encourages the initiative and efforts of each member to participate in decisionmaking and implementing that decision. In this way, we will avoid the situation of one or a few monopolizing the decisionmaking process or the operations of the organization. It is the organizations system or method of working collectively. In the committee system we can note the division of labor, the relation of the secretary to the members, the system of meetings, etc. We should study the committee system and implement it. It is a way of practicing the principle of democratic centralism. We should pay attention to doing our tasks in an organized and systematic way, especially when these tasks multiply and get heavy and the organization is expanding. By using the committee system, we will avoid problems that get in the way of an organization. If we followed a system of dividing the work, we will avoid overloading the secretary with work while other members are not mobilized. If we follow a system of meetings, while we avoid meetings that are too frequent and too long while making sure that each meetings is well prepared for. We will avoid neglecting some tasks or delaying the solution of problems. The committee system is important so that the unit can tackle important tasks and problems successfully. All members of a committee should be firmly united in doing the tasks assigned to them by the organization. This unity is important if the committee is to operate effectively. It is the task of every member of a committee to supervise the

2. WHAT IS THE COMMITTEE SYSTEM?

She strives to work in a thorough and systemic way, shunning sloppiness or carelessness in style. He/She continually studies and seeks better ways to solve problems and perform his/ her duties in a more effective way. A revolutionary is lively and enthusiastic. He/She keeps a positive mental attitude and eagerness in his/her work, conscious that every step brings him closer to the bright future. He/She doesnt allow himself/herself to lose spirit or be discouraged in the face of problems and difficulties. With militance and a fighting spirit, he/she seizes every moment and opportunity in the struggle. Initiative is a mark of the revolutionary. His/ Her initiative applies not only to his/her own responsibilities, but also to other areas where he/she sees the need for immediate attention. A revolutionary is always willing to take on tasks and responsibilities. He/She accepts his/her assignments with little concern for the hard work or sacrifices they entail. He/She is not choosy with his/her work because he/she does not seek fame or comfort for himself/herself.

3. WHAT IS THE CORRECT ATTITUDE TOWARDS HARDSHIPS, SACRIFICES AND DEATH?

3. WHAT ARE THE TASKS OF COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP?

ARAK / LESSON 6

A revolutionary realizes that hardships, sacrifices and even death are inevitable in the struggle to free our country. These are natural in a revolution that seeks to overthrow the domination of U.S. imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism. These are not only natural but indeed necessary in order to assert and defend the interests of the people and the revolution. It is the price we have to pay in order to stop oppression and establish a truly free and democratic society. A revolutionary stands ready for sacrifices, even death if necessary, for the success of our peoples just struggle. The sacrifices of a revolutionary are useful because they are for the victory of the revolution. He/She knows that after the dark hours of hardship will come the light of dawn, the realization of our dreams. In the face of danger and hardship, his/her readiness to accept sacrifice and death gives him strength and courage to uphold the interests of the people and revolution. However, his/her courage is guided by consciousness. Much as he/she is not afraid of sacrifice, he/she also avoids unnecessary danger and sacrifice. He/She does not foolishly confront danger just because he/she is prepared to die. He/She constantly safeguards the lives and security of the masses, those of our comrades, as well as his/her own.
QUALITIES OF A REVOLUTIONARY / 4

4. WHAT IS THE CORRECT ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE MASSES?

The masses are the decisive factor in accomplishing any revolutionary objective. It is thru their inherent wisdom and strength that society moves forward. The masses form an inexhaustible reservoir of creativity and energy that cannot be suppressed by any one who opposes their historic march. In order to achieve our freedom, democracy and progress, we must rely on and trust the masses. As revolutionaries we recognize and accept our responsibility to the masses. It is our duty to uphold the interests of the masses at all times, establish close unity with them, and encourage them along the path of revolutionary change, giving full play to their talents, wisdom and energy. The revolutionary who upholds the national democratic interest of the masses is known by his/her enthusiasm and boundless sense of responsibility in dealing with the masses. He/She is patient in explaining to them and raising their consciousness. He/She is tireless in helping the masses to organize themselves, solve their problems and fight against their enemies. A revolutionary is truly one with the masses and dedicated to their service. He/She is constantly concerned with the total well being of the masses, from the problem of land and labor, to those of fuel, rice, cooking oil and salt By upholding the national democratic interests of the masses we create the firmest unity between ourselves and the masses. This unity is something that we hold dear and vital to our cause. To this end we strive to be always close to the masses, eager to learn from them and work with them. We strictly avoid doing anything that violates the interests of the masses or any kind of abuse against them. To depart from this principle is to erode our unity with the masses and isolate the revolution from them. A revolutionary loves and cherishes his/her comrades and is good in uniting with them. This caring attitude and ability to unite with each other are vital in ensuring the solidarity and strength of our ranks. We should be good in uniting with all our comrades, not only with those who we like or are close to us, but also with those who are not familiar to us, those who disagree with our opinions, and those who have committed mistakes but are willing to change their ways. We should cultivate the largeness of mind to be able to rise above petty differences and

MITTEE
1. What is the collective leadership? What is the committee system? 5. 3. What are the tasks of committee members? What should we pay attention to so we can improve our meetings? 4. How do we continue to improve the collective operations of the committee? 2.

5. HOW SHOULD WE TREAT OUR COMRADES IN THE STRUGGLE?

ARAK / LESSON 1

Lesson Six

THE COMM SYSTEM

misunderstandings because we value our unity. In dealing with our comrades, the important thing is to understand their situation, recognize their efforts, and help them to improve in the struggle. We should be thoughtful and caring for one another and imbued with a sense of responsibility for the well being of each comrade. It is our duty to help one another not only with problems related to our work, but also with the personal problems. The joys and hardships of our comrades are also our own. We should help one another remold ourselves in the struggle.

6. WHAT IS THE CORRECT ATTITUDE TOWARDS CRITICISM AND SELF-CRITICISM?

In the course of the struggle it is natural that we sometimes commit mistakes or fall into wrong tendencies. These are commonly caused by our lack of experience or the product of wrong ideas and bad habits carried over into the movement. But we are always ready to overcome these mistakes because we are committed to the highest interests of the people. As revolutionaries we are always ready to criticize our own mistakes and weaknesses, and we welcome criticisms from others, because we desire only what is good for the people. If the criticisms are valid, we will not deny them or hesitate to correct them because it is not our personal interest but the interest of the people that are at stake. We are not afraid of criticism because truth is on our side, and the masses are on our side. Criticism and self-criticism is a powerful weapon for correcting our mistakes and overcoming our weaknesses. It is essential for ensuring unity within our ranks, maintaining a healthy and democratic style in our organizations, and increasing our fighting capacity. Thru criticism and selfcriticism, we learn from our past mistakes and are able to avoid them in the future. We should undertake criticism and self-criticism on a regular basis. In this way we are able to constantly examine our actions, improve our work, strengthen our unity and maintain our close ties to the masses. Without the constant practice of criticism and self-criticism, all kinds of political dust and germs can gather in our organization, and we will become like a field full of weeds and pests, while the crops are thin and bare of fruits.
QUALITIES OF A REVOLUTIONARY / 6

Lesson Two

REVOLUTIO STUDY

5. WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF THE MEMBERSHIP AND THE LOWER UNITS?

The membership of a revolutionary organization are composed of responsible individuals actively committed to the goals of the organization. It differs from the bourgeois or feudal organizations where unity is loose and the tendency is to simply follow orders or be completely reliant on the initiatives of the leadership. The members of a revolutionary organization do not work for their own interests only, but for the bigger goals of the organization. Each individual strives to build a strong and stable organization to fight against the ruling class. It is the duty of each member and part of the organization to follow all decision; carry out the tasks, plans and programs efficiently; safeguard the interests and security of the organization. It should immediately bring to the attention of the leading units all questions or problems as well as the results in carrying out its tasks. It is the duty of each member and lower unit of the organization to submit reports regularly and promptly, together with their suggestions, observations and criticisms on matters vital to that interest of the organization. It is the responsibility of each one to be truthful and make sure that the information submitted is accurate. This is vital in formulating correct decisions and plans. It is the right of each member to participate in meetings to help foment agreement and formulate decisions. This is done by sharing his/her experiences and knowledge of the conditions, and expressing his/her opinions, observations, suggestions and criticisms. It is also the right of the lower units to raise suggestions or criticisms to the leading units and to make decisions on matters within the scope of its responsibilities. It is the right of each member to be informed of the situation and happenings in other parts of the unit. Likewise, the lower units have a right to inquire from the leading units on the situation of the work in the latters area. It is the duty of each member to attend and actively participate in meetings. It is his/her responsibility to promote agreement during meetings and contribute in the making of decisions. In meetings all member should participate in sharing their experiences and knowledge and expressing their opinions, observations, suggestions and criticisms.

DEMOCRATIC CENTRALISM / 32

4. WHAT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LEADING UNIT?

Unlike the bourgeois or feudal organizations of the present decadent society, the leading units of our revolutionary organizations do not behave like emperors riding over the heads of the people. The leading units operate according to the principle of the democratic centralism, chosen in a democratic process and acting for the interest of all members and parts of the organization. It is the task of the leading unit to provide comprehensive leadership within the realm of its responsibility. It oversees the entire work to make sure that the organizational objectives are carried out in an effective and unified way. It provides direct leadership in the implementation of the important tasks to ensure correct implementation of decisions and keep close track of its progress. It is very important that the leading unit is familiar with both the overall work as well as the particular aspects of work in the organization. In addition to the reports it receives, the leading unit should go directly to the ranks of the members and the masses to gather the needed information. By following the progress of the work at close hand, it is immediately aware of the changes in conditions, and be able to provide immediate guidance and decisions. It is the leading unit that outlines the program and plan of work. A program is usually made to spell out the work that needs to be done during a specific period of time- a month, quarter, etc. A plan on the other hand itemizes the specific tasks for a certain activity, campaign or particular goal. Good programming and planning is essential for systematizing our work and unifying our efforts. It requires careful study of the conditions and the progress of the work so that the programs and plans are attuned to the conditions and the needs of the masses. The plans and programs promulgated by the leading units should be promptly disseminated and explained to the entire membership. It is the leading unit that calls and presides over general meetings of the organization. This is where important issues concerning the interests of the organization are discuss and decided. This is also where the leading unit reports on the situation or progress of work and presents its proposed plan and programs for the approval of the body. It is the duty of the leading unit to ensure that meetings produce broad consensus and collective unity.

ONARY
1. 2. What is the importance of study? Why is it important to study the peoples democratic revolution? What is investigation? 4. What is the importance of analysis? What is assessment? What is summing up? 5. 6. 3.

ARAK / LESSON 5

1. WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF STUDY?

Study is an important aspect of revolutionary work. This revolution requires conscious and deliberate action. It is dangerous to the lives of the masses and the outcome of the revolution if we are to submit our actions to mere chance or wishfulness thinking. Neither can revolutionary work be done in spurts of activity based on the ups and downs of emotional fervor. In each step of the way, we proceed from a scientific study of the situation from which we can correctly establish our plans, formulate methods to accomplish them and define our tasks accordingly. Revolutionary study teaches us about the important aspects of our work. Not only does it show the correct direction of the struggle, it also provides particular guidance for our everyday work. Thru study we become conscious of the deceptive ideas propagated by the ruling classes for the purpose of driving us away from the correct path. Revolutionary study is done thru participation in collective discussions, reading of revolutionary literature, current events and history, social investigation and analyses. It is very important to study the peoples democratic revolution because it teaches us the correct way to analyze the conditions of Philippine society, the roots of our social problems and the means to solve them. Studying the peoples democratic revolution sustains our fighting spirit against the oppressors, and strengthens the unity of thought and action among the exploited classes. The basic mass course provides the initial systematic explanation of the peoples democratic revolution. In special mass courses, we study the development of specific mass struggles as part of the peoples democratic revolution. The mass course also opens the door to study other reference books, newspapers and materials. The books Philippine Society and Revolution and Struggle for National Democracy are basic references in the study of the peoples democratic revolution. These books clarify fundamental questions regarding the nature of Philippine society and revolution. By frequently returning to these materials, we can review our grasp of the basic principles, and be guided in dealing with the problems that come our way.

3. WHAT ARE THE FOUR RULES OF DISCIPLINE OF THE ORGANIZATION?

The Four Rules of Discipline ensures the unity of our organization and is based on democratic centralism. A/ The individual is subordinate to the organization. This means that each individual should submit to the interest of the whole organization, abide by its Constitution and follow its decisions wholeheartedly. B/ The minority is subordinate to the majority. Decisions to be followed should reflect the will of the majority. Even if a minority holds a contrary position, when the body makes a decision, it must support the decision passed by the majority. C/ The lower level is subordinate to the higher level. Units on the lower level should follow the decisions and policies made by the higher organs, which oversee a broader scope of the organization. D/ The entire membership is subordinate to the national leadership and the national Congress of the organization. Decisions and policies enacted by the National Congress and the national leadership are binding and should be followed by all members and parts of the organization. These principles should serve as guides for discipline within the organization. However, it should not be applied in a mechanical way. For example, opposite ideas should not be discussed exhaustively before it is put to a vote. Our goal is to achieve unity and consensus, and conflicting ideas should not always be resolved by a quick vote. The struggle of ideas within the organization is healthy and serves to strengthen our unity. In addition, we should be good in bringing conflicts out into the open so it could be discuss collectively. We should avoid creating small groups and cliques within each unit because it destroys the unity of the collective. After a decision is made, dissenting opinions should be discussed within the unit or with the secretary.

2. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO STUDY THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC REVOLUTION?

ARAK / LESSON 2

DEMOCRATIC CENTRALISM / 30

1. WHAT IS ORGANIZATION?

We often hear of the work organization. This is the system that brings together many different individuals to work together as one, towards a common mutually agreed objective. The organization may be compared to a broom that deprives its effectivity from many different strands bound together. When separated the individual strands are weak and bend easily, but when bound together it becomes a broom which is effective for sweeping away dirt. The same is true with us, the working class. Our oppressors would prefer to see us remain disunited so we cannot resist their exploitation and domination. But if we are organized and firmly united, like the broom we can sweep away the dirt and problems of society. It is our duty to strengthen our organization and be good at uniting with and motivating our forces. By forging the utmost strength and unity of the broad masses of the oppressed we can overcome the handful of exploiters and establish a democratic and free Philippines. Democratic centralism is the principle that guides us in establishing and running our organizations to ensure that we work as one united entity. Leadership (centralism) based on democracy means that it takes into consideration the entire interest of the organization. A healthy organization requires the active participation of all its various members and parts of the organization so that policies are collectively decided and based on the overall interest. Democracy under centralized leadership means that the actions of each individual member or part of the organization is subordinated to, or in accordance with the overall interest or objective. Decisions of the organization are strictly adhered to and fully implemented at the same time that individuals enjoy great freedom within the bounds of the organizational discipline. Our adherence to the principle of democratic centralism ensures the best condition for formulating correct decisions, plans and programs and being able to carry them out effectively and enthusiastically. The living practice of the principle of democratic centralism is a sure guarantee of our victory.

It is also important to read and study issues of Ang Bayan, LIB, BMP and other revolutionary publications. These materials explain the positions and policies of the movement, provide analysis of the economic and political situation, and lay down our immediate tasks for advancing the revolutionary struggle of the different sectors, areas or lines of work.

3. WHAT IS INVESTIGATION?

2. WHAT IS DEMOCRATIC CENTRALISM?

Investigation is the process of gathering accurate information about situations or events. There is a social investigation, and investigation on the implementation of tasks, or plan or programs. Social investigation is the study of the status of the different social classes. This is the starting point of all our political work. By studying the interrelationships of the different social classes in the economic, political and cultural field in real life, we are able to form a concrete picture of a society, or a part of that society, such as a specific locality. Social investigation is crucial because it enables us to identify the targets, as well as the methods and direction for arousing, organizing and mobilizing the masses. On this we base our plans and programs of action in a locality. Investigation is a constant and never ending task. Everyone should make it a habit to observe and investigate. When studying a problem, we should make sure that we have sufficient and correct information. By seeing to it that nothing escapes our attention, we are able to keep a firm grasp of the objective conditions. Analysis is an important part of study. By the method of analysis, we are able to understand the nature of things and events. We root out the causes and the process of development of events or phenomena. In other words, analysis addresses the question Why?, How?, and What? in the nature and relationship of things. By analyzing why and how things and events happen, we develop a more complete and deeper understanding about those things and events. The practice of analysis is vital to our revolutionary work. All our plans and programs are based on our analysis of the

4. WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF ANALYSIS?

ARAK / LESSON 5

REVOLUTIONARY STUDY / 10

changing conditions and development of our own work. By doing analysis we are able to formulate a correct and effective way of solving problems, develop our capability to improve our work and successfully accomplish our tasks. Be analytical. Whatever the issue is, be interested not only in what, but more importantly the why and how, in order to understand the essence of the phenomenon. We should guard against a subjective, superficial, or one sided way of looking at things. By doing analysis, we avoid being deceived by external appearances and thereby place ourselves in an active position to effectively carry out our tasks.

5. WHAT IS ASSESSMENT?

Assessment is a form of investigation, and an important part of revolutionary study. We usually conduct two kinds of assessment: assessment of our work and assessment of the situation. We assess our work to measure the status or level reached in the implementation of our plans and program. Assessment of the situation considers the character and level of struggle between the classes of society. One example of assessment of our work is the commonly conducted monthly assessment, in conjunction with the preparation of reports. We also conduct assessments after every mass action. In it we identify the successes and failures of a particular action, and what has or has not been achieved in the plan. Assessment also clarifies the mistakes to be corrected, problems to be resolved, and tasks to be done. An example of an assessment of the situation is the study of the balance of forces in an area: the level of strength of revolutionary forces versus that of the enemys, our capability to advance and the enemys ability to retaliate. It clarifies the needs and tasks that need to be done to advance the revolution. It further clarifies the strength, disposition and movement of the enemy, and how we can crush it piece by piece. We must conduct frequent assessments. This enables us to maintain a firm grasp of the situation, be alert to the needs and opportunities of the moment, and be quick in setting up the tasks to be done. Frequent assessment gives us correct, timely and specific guidance on how to plan our tasks and implement them.

TIC SM
1. 2. 3. What is organization? What is democratic centralism? 5. What are the Four Rules of Discipline of the Organization? What are the duties of the membership and the lower units? 4. What are the responsibilities of the leading unit?

ARAK / LESSON 2

6. WHAT IS SUMMING UP?

Lesson Five

DEMOCRAT CENTRALIS

Summing up is the analysis of our positive and negative experiences in order to draw useful lessons and guides to action. The conclusions derived from summing up are general lessons that will serve to guide our work in the long term. There are many kinds of summing up, depending on our purpose and the nature and scope of the experience being summed-up. Usually we sum up our experiences in working with the masses, the way we exercise leadership, and the manner we have ran the mass organizations. Here we draw lessons on the correct and effective ways of launching and managing the mass movement. We may also sum up experiences of the mass work in a locality to draw lessons on correct and effective methods of work. After laying down the data and the results of our work, within a given time frame and area of work being summed up, we focus our attention on: A / the progress of our work, the causes and conditions that contribute to its present status, and the lessons to be drawn from them. B / Our specific strengths and weaknesses, our mistakes and our effective moves; the conditions and attitudes that brought them about, and the lessons to be drawn from them. C / The requisites for effective execution of tasks or for successful measures, and the lessons to be drawn from them. Summing up is an important aspect of study which enables us to learn directly from our experience. We actively use our experience, be it positive or negative, in order to sharpen our knowledge and improve our abilities in accomplishing the tasks at hand. In summing up we gain a deeper grasp of the principles of the revolution based on our very own experience.

REVOLUTIONARY STUDY / 12

Lesson Three

THE CORRE METHOD O ANALYSIS

5. WHAT IS REVOLUTIONARY CLASS LINE?

The revolutionary class line is the principle that shows us the correct way to relate with the various social classes in accordance with the mass line and the principles of the peoples democratic revolution. It clarifies who are the real friends and real enemies of the revolution. It also clarifies the correct class basis for leading the revolution: to depend principally on the most reliable classes, to win over the middle forces and to isolate the most rabid of our enemies. Overall, the revolutionary class line teaches us to give emphasis on mobilizing the ranks of the toiling masses: the peasants, workers and semi-proletariat. In the countryside we give first attention to the most reliable classes and strata: the farm workers or agricultural proletariat and the poor and lower-middle peasant or the rural semi-proletariat. We strive to win over the middle and upper-middle peasants and neutralize the rich peasants in order to isolate the despotic and oppressive landlords. By using the revolutionary class line, we have a scientific class basis for dealing with the people in locality. We will avoid being carried away by external appearances or acting only on the basis of the personal likes and dislikes for individuals we meet. This is why it is important to recognize the classes that compose the population in the area, and the class origins of the people we are dealing with.

THE MASS LINE / 26

relatively backward. The advanced sector of the masses is typically quick to understand the need for change and is ready to carry them out. The backward members are still strongly influenced by backward tendencies and are unwilling to undertake changes. The middle members often understand the need for change but are hesitant or vacillating and not fully ready to make the changes. We principally rely on the most advanced elements of the masses, those who are most active, enthusiastic and desirous for change. By uniting with the advanced elements we can mobilize the middle elements and draw them in according to their objective interests, taking into full consideration their readiness to undertake the changes. The leaders must therefore be skilled in uniting the small number of active elements around the leadership and must rely on them to raise the level of the intermediate elements and win over the backward elements. We should be continually aware of the level of consciousness of the masses at any time and strive to raise them to the next higher level. If we base our calls and policies only on the advanced elements, we will end up giving out orders to the majority of the masses without their full understanding and voluntary acceptance. This is the error of commandism. On the other hand if we base our leadership only on the large number of backward elements, we will be lagging behind the masses. What happens is that the advanced and intermediate members are clamoring for change while we ourselves are hesitant and need to be convinced. We will have fallen to the error of tailism.

ECT OF
1. 2. 3. Do all things change? What causes change? How do we use comparison and differentiation in analysis? 5. 6. 4. Why should we study the relationship between the parts and the whole in analyzing a thing? How do things change? How is a contradiction resolved and how does a phenomenon come to an end?

4. WHY IS THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC REVOLUTION THE CORRECT AND LIVING PRACTICE OF THE MASS LINE?

The peoples democratic revolution is based on a thorough study of the history and conditions of Philippine society. It responds to the peoples fundamental need for independence and democracy. The peoples democratic revolution proceeds from the objective conditions and needs of the masses and shows the correct direction of revolutionary change. Thus in following the principles of the peoples democratic revolution we are confident that our actions conform to the interests of the masses and the correct path of the revolution. Using the principles of the peoples democratic revolution as our basic framework, we are able to assess the particular conditions, problems and views of the masses in an area and provide correct leadership to their struggle.

ARAK / LESSON 4

1. DO ALL THINGS CHANGE?

All things change, and change goes on all the time. There is nothing that could be said to be complete or permanent, and thus cannot change anymore. If we observe what is around us, be it nature of human society, we see that everything, including man, is continually undergoing changeconstantly evolving, developing and transforming. Some changes are small and gradual, some are sudden. All things have a beginning and an end. While matter, nature and society undergo change, human understanding of these phenomena also changes and his/ her knowledge itself develops and changes. It is humankinds persistent search for the real causes behind the change in things that propels the rapid expansion of the entire body of human knowledge. With his/her new gained knowledge, man acquires greater ability to effectively change things for his/her own purposes. It is because we are sure in the knowledge that all things do and can change, that we do not shirk from the challenges before us, lose our spirit and become passive in the face of problems and difficulties. On the contrary, we are confident in our ability to overcome any difficulty in order to advance the national democratic interests of the people. The ultimate cause of change in any thing is within the thing itself. It is the internal contradiction with a thing which is the principal cause and main determinant of the change it undergoes. Contradiction is the unity and struggle between opposite aspects contained within an object or phenomenon. For example, how do we explain the evolution and development of Philippine society? Is it because fate, or the intervention of other countries? No. It is the internal contradiction within society which propels its developmentthe struggle between the social classes. On one side is the ruling class, bent on exploitation and determined to hold back the peoples advance; while on the other side are the ruled classes, oppressed and desirous for development, freedom and democracy. External conditions influence the process of change. There is nothing that exists in isolation from its environment. In the process of its evolution a thing exerts influence on others around it, and is in turn acted upon by the action of others. These external factors can be favorable or unfavorable to the

Leadership that is from the masses, to the masses is in accordance with the mass line. In order to understand the conditions and problems of the masses, and work out their solutions, we rely on the knowledge and wisdom of the masses themselves. We believe that the only way to formulate correct decisions and plans is when the masses themselves participate by sharing their knowledge and experience. Thus it is out duty to immerse ourselves with the masses and do investigating among them in order to gather their scattered and unsystematic ideas. By studying and synthesizing these ideas, giving careful attention to the opinions of the masses, we shall be able to formulate concentrated and systematic ideas that reflect that true conditions of the masses, and work out correct solutions to their problems. To implement the ideas formulated and solve the problem of the masses, we again rely on the ability and power of the masses. We trust that no matter how large the problem, as long as the masses are determined and united in their effort, it will certainly be solved. It is our duty to explain patiently to the masses the ideas that have been synthesized from them. We persevere in these ideas until the masses embrace it as their own, and carry it thru by their collective efforts.

2. WHAT CAUSES CHANGE?

3. WHAT DO WE MEAN BY ACTING ACCORDING TO THE INTERESTS AND LEVEL OF PREPAREDNESS OF THE MASSES?

The mass line teaches us to act according to the objective interests of the masses. This means to work according to the actual needs of the masses, rather than what we fancy they need. Because no matter how good our intentions, if we digress from the objective interests of the masses, eventually we will become isolated from them. It often happens that the masses are not yet aware of their objective needs, do not yet understand the need for change and therefore not ready to effect those changes. If we insist on our position, no matter how good they are, we will surely be isolated from the masses. In such cases we should wait patiently. We should not make the change until, thru our work, most of the masses have become conscious of the need and are willing and determined to carry it thru. HOW DO WE GO ABOUT THIS? The masses in any given place are generally composed of three parts: the relatively advanced, the intermediate and the
THE MASS LINE / 24

ARAK / LESSON 3

1. WHAT IS THE MASS LINE?

The mass line is a revolutionary principle which teaches us to trust and rely on the masses of our people in order to change the oppressive conditions of our society. This principle is founded on the truth that the masses and the masses alone are the real makers of history. Thousands of years of human history have proven that it is the masses that cause all the changes that propel society forward. It is their productive power that sustains society. Because of their innate intelligence and creativity, societys knowledge and standard of life continually advances. Their collective energy is an irresistible historical force that sweeps away anything that stands in the way of societys progress. Thus we say that the masses are the real heroes. The success of any social undertaking invariable depends on the support and participation of the masses. In order to win victory in our national democratic revolution, we must therefore trust and rely on the masses. In achieving an objective or solving any problem, we must always count on the active participation of the masses. We should go into the midst of the masses and unite with them. By patiently arousing, organizing and mobilizing the masses, we shall be able to bring out their latent energy and enthusiasm for revolutionary change. There is no other way for us to achieve the genuine freedom and democracy that we seek to build in our country. It is the duty of every revolutionary to study and practice the mass line. Each one of us should internalize what it means to be patient and persevering in working with the masses, and to be genuinely humble in dealing with them. In this way we will avoid being overbearing and isolated from the masses; on the one hand giving orders left and right, on the other hand, shouldering all the work by ourselves. All correct leadership is necessarily from the masses, to the masses. This means taking the ideas of the masses (scattered and unsystematic ideas) and concentrating them (thru study turn them into systematic ideas), then going to the masses and propagating and explaining these ideas until the masses embrace them as their own, holding fast to them and translating them into action, and testing the correctness of these ideas in such action.

process of change and can act to hasten or slow it down. For example, what determines the continued development of a comrade is the struggle between correct and incorrect ideas within himself/herself: between upholding the national democratic interests of the people versus everything that runs counter to this. So it is up to the comrade to decide whether he/she will persevere in the revolution or become passive in the face of difficulties. But external conditions can have an important influence on his/her decision: his/her collective, the higher unit that guides him, his/her family, his/her loved ones, the masses he/she works with, and many more. Whenever we analyze something, our main goal is to understand the essence of that thing, i.e., study the contradictory aspects, characteristics or forces that determine its development. In the case of a comrade for example, we examine the contradictory aspects of his/her thinking, the positive and negative qualities, the correct and the incorrect, and the revolutionary and counter-revolutionary aspect. When analyzing the development of a barrio, we study the contradictions between the oppressors on one hand and the oppressed and exploited masses on the other hand.

3. HOW DO WE USE COMPARISON AND DIFFERENTIATION IN ANALYSIS?

2. WHAT IS THE MEANING OF FROM THE MASSES TO THE MASSES?

Comparison and differentiation are two methods we use in analysis. The contradictions that govern the development of a phenomenon are best understood by comparing and differentiating them with other contradictions. For example, the contradiction within a given barrio may be compared and differentiated from the contradictions in other barrios. In doing comparison we examine the characteristics common to a set of contradictions and other contradictions. Comparison helps us focus on the essence of a thing and guides in our study of the contradiction. For example, when analyzing the problem of a comrade, we proceed from the recognition that as a comrade, he/she upholds the national democratic interests of the people a quality common to all comrades. This is our guide in examining and solving his/her problem. In another example: we recognize that the contradictions operating in our barrio have a commonality with contradictions in all other rural villages in the country. Thus the agrarian revolution could and should be

ARAK / LESSON 4

THE CORRECT METHOD OF ANALYSIS / 16

implemented in our barrio. The experiences of other barrios in the implementation of the agrarian revolution which we read in Ang Bayan should give us valuable ideas on how to launch the program in our own localities. However, it is not possible for a contradiction to be completely identical to another. Each contradiction bears particular characteristics unique only to itself. Thus it is not possible to completely identify one problem with another and mechanically imitate the same solution. Together with comparison, we should also differentiate in order to recognize the particular characteristics of the contradiction being studied. By differentiating we get a more complete and substantive understanding of a phenomenon and this enables us to formulate a correct and appropriate solution or method of work. For example, we cannot just copy the methods used by another barrio to lower land rent. It is possible that the form of land rent extracted by the local landlords is different. The strength of the landlord power may be different, or that of his/her local henchmen, or the military forces in the town and barrio. It is also possible that there is a difference in the strength and readiness of the masses, the mass organizations, its leadership, etc. So in order to formulate a plan for lowering land rent, it is necessary to study the particular conditions and needs of the barrio.

S LINE
1. 2. What is the mass line? What is the meaning of from the masses to the masses? 5. What do we mean by acting according to the interests and level of preparedness of the masses? 4. Why is the peoples democratic revolution the correct and living practice of the mass line? What is revolutionary class line? 3.

4. WHY SHOULD WE STUDY THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE PARTS AND THE WHOLE IN ANALYZING A THING?

Everything we analyze is part of a bigger entity. To avoid becoming one-sided in our conclusions, we should pay attention to the relationship between the particular aspect being analyzed and the whole picture. We should consider how the development of the whole influences the development of the parts and is reflected in them. This way we can better understand the process of development of an object or phenomenon. For example, a barrio being organized is but part of a bigger town or province. The developments in the town or province, like the intensification of military, reaction is manifested in our barrio, for example in the formation of CHDFs or the launching of military operations. By relating our study of events in the barrio to the events in the town and province, we are better able to understand the whys and whereofs of the militarys reaction. We will not view it as a simple reaction to a local event in the barrio.

ARAK / LESSON 3

THE MASS LINE / 22

Lesson Four

THE MASS
5. HOW DO THINGS CHANGE?

In another example, our committees do not operate independent of the current thrust of the movement. Our local plans are always in accordance with the broader plans established at the section or district level. Conversely, we always consider in our assessment the effect and influence of the guidance from the higher organs, and the relationship between the overall development of the movement and the development at the town and section level. In studying an object, we should pay attention to studying the smaller parts that make up the whole. This enables us to acquire a more complete, substantive and profound understanding of the object; confirm our initial conclusions and avoid haphazard, careless generalizations. When making an assessment, it is not enough to say that in the whole the work was good. We should examine the conduct of the different aspects of work like education, organization and mass mobilization. In this way our analysis of the program implementation is clearer, more substantive and more realistic. Initially, one aspect of a contradiction is strong and predominates over the opposite aspect which is weaker. This dominant aspect determines the basic characteristic or essence of a phenomenon. For example, Philippine society is semi-colonial and semi-feudal because it is dominated by U.S. Imperialism, local feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism. But this situation is not static. The two aspects are in continuous struggle, each aspect undergoing changes in its form and its strength, and the struggle between the two aspects continually changing in its intensity. Initially the changes are small, and except for small changes in form and external appearance, it seems that the object is not changing at all. This is the stage of QUANTITATIVE change. In the Philippines for example, the class struggle is manifested in many different changes in form like the rise in joblessness, the increase in labor strikes and other forms of mass struggle, the expansion of the peoples army, etc. However there is no change in the basic relations between classes and the essential semi-colonial semi-feudal character of the Philippine society remains.

ARAK / LESSON 4

THE CORRECT METHOD OF ANALYSIS / 18

In the course of the struggle, a time will come when the previously dominated yet advancing aspect becomes the dominant aspect. And that which previously dominates is now dominated. This is called the stage of QUALITATIVE change. It is marked by a sharp change in the essence or nature of a thing, in which the newly dominant aspect is now the determinant. The qualitative change in Philippine society will come with the victory of the National Democratic Revolution. The social classes that were once ruled, oppressed and exploited will become the dominant classes, and there will be a major change in the political life, economy and culture of the nation. In analysis it is important to recognize and differentiate the quantitative from the qualitative changes. Hence we avoid the mistake of confusing changes in form from changes in the essence of things. This distinguishes for example, reformism from revolution. This approach helps us to better understand the requirements and the conditions to achieve meaningful change.

6. HOW IS A CONTRADICTION RESOLVED AND HOW DOES A PHENOMENON COME TO AN END?

Contradictions come to an end when the unity and struggle of opposites disappear. When the basis for the existence of one opposite aspect disappears, the unity of the two opposing aspects is destroyed and the contradiction is resolved. At this point the old phenomenon comes to an end and new contradictions will begin in the new phenomenon. For example, as long as the fundamental feudal relationships in the countryside continue to exist, there will always be a basis for U.S. Imperialism to return to power, along with its local collaborators. The victory of the National Democratic Revolution in effect switches the relative position of the two opposing camps of social classes in the Philippines. But to completely resolve the contradiction and put an end to the semi-colonial, semi-feudal society, the peoples democratic revolution should completely implement the Agrarian Revolution and systematically destroy all remnants of reactionary political power in every corner of the country. Only then would feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism come to an end, the imperialist stranglehold destroyed, and from the ashes of the old society will rise a truly free, democratic and prosperous Philippines.

By knowing how contradictions are resolved and how a phenomenon comes to an end, we can understand what tasks and what conditions are needed so that the basis for the contradiction is removed. It is the task of our analysis to know not only how a contradiction is resolved, but by what means to conduct the struggle in the best interest of the people. There are two forms of struggle: antagonistic struggle and non-antagonistic struggle. The struggle between the exploited and the exploiting classes is antagonistic, and it can be resolved only by a violent revolution. Contradictions between right and wrong ideas within the movement are non-antagonistic and should be resolved only in a peaceful way like democratic discussions and criticisms. By studying the different forms of struggle between contradictions, we can distinguish the correct method necessary in conducting struggle. To use violence in a non-antagonistic struggle is to harm the interest of the masses. On the other hand, to say that the struggle against the exploiting and the oppressive classes is non-antagonistic and can be done in a non-violent way is to fall into the trap of reformism, thereby derailing the peoples struggle and benefiting only the exploiters.

ARAK / LESSON 3

THE CORRECT METHOD OF ANALYSIS / 20