FORMER REBELS DENOUNCE ARMED REVOLUTION, EMBRACE DIALOGUE FOR PEACE

September 27, 2024

A historic shift in the Philippines' peace process unfolded on Thursday (September 26, 2024) as former rebels, once sworn to armed struggle, now stand united in their condemnation of violence and their commitment to dialogue for peace.

This powerful declaration, a two-page manifesto titled "A Call for Unity, Progress, and Collective Healing," was unveiled at a press conference held at La Breza Hotel in Quezon City following the culmination of the Nationwide Peace Advocate Summit 2024.

"We, former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), are united and peacefully condemn the violence inflicted by the CPP-NPA-NDF and other forms of violence experienced by the Filipino people," the manifesto stated.

"Our decision to condemn armed struggle does not mean abandoning our principles. We do not turn our backs on the fight for social justice – instead, we embrace a new approach to struggle, one that aligns with the rule of law and collaboration among all sectors of society."

Undersecretary Ernesto C. Torres Jr, NTF-ELCAC Executive Director, stated that the manifesto marks a significant shift in the thinking of former rebels, who are now actively seeking a peaceful resolution to conflict through collaboration and dialogue.

"It is a powerful declaration from those who have walked the path of conflict, now committed to forging a new way forward for themselves and for future generations," he stressed.

The declaration, drafted by the former rebels themselves, outlines a shared vision for a peaceful future and serves as a testament to their commitment to forging a new way forward for themselves and for future generations. A key outcome of the Summit was the strengthening of former rebels’ people’s organizations, which will work to empower these groups, promote sustainable development, and foster a sense of belonging and purpose among former combatants.

The declaration also serves as a guiding document for the NTF-ELCAC as it works to implement programs and initiatives that support the reintegration of former rebels and promote lasting peace in our communities.

“We are committed to translating the recommendations and insights gathered during this summit into actionable policies and programs,” said Torres. "We will work closely with local government units, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that the voices of former rebels are not only heard but also integrated into our national discourse on unity, peace, and development.”

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, in his closing remarks, emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to achieving lasting peace and reconciliation in the Philippines. He highlighted the crucial role of the NTF-ELCAC in facilitating dialogue and reintegration, and reiterated the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict to prevent future violence.

"I am confident that we can build a brighter future for our nation, one where peace and prosperity prevail," said Sec. Año.

He also commended the NTF-ELCAC, led by Usec Torres, for the "well-meaning initiative" and the OPAPRU headed by Secretary Carlito Galvez "for its help and contributions not just in this program but in all our peace-building campaigns."

"To be sure, this is an event that I thought at first was difficult or impossible to pull off, but we were able to do it because of our hard work and joint efforts," Año said.

The NTF ELCAC is committed to creating a supportive environment that nurtures the reintegration of former rebels into society and addresses their welfare and that of their families. The task force assured to work closely with former rebels’ people’s organizations to empower these groups, promoting sustainable development and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among former combatants.

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NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Joel M. Sy Egco

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