NTF-ELCAC bullish on fruitful collaboration with COCOPEA

November 11, 2024

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) welcomes the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations of the Philippines (COCOPEA) as a Private Sector Representative in the task force's Executive Committee. This significant development was announced during the NTF-ELCAC's 6th Executive Committee meeting, presided over by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

In a press briefing, Executive Director Ernesto C. Torres Jr. highlighted that COCOPEA’s inclusion will significantly broaden the government's information, awareness, and peace-building efforts, particularly concerning the recruitment activities and grooming tactics of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).

In its statement last week, COCOPEA said that "[it] is in solidarity with the government, particularly the NTF-ELCAC, in its ongoing peace efforts through the National Action Plan on Unity, Peace, and Development." It is worth noting that COCOPEA was one of various groups invited to the task force's dialogue with civil society organizations (CSOs) on October 16.

COCOPEA’s involvement will also allow private educational institutions to work closely with the government in providing educational opportunities to communities in conflict-affected areas. It will bolster the task force’s focus on reducing educational gaps to address longstanding issues that have been exploited by the CTG to recruit children and youth in the countryside and urban areas. By supporting the task force, COCOPEA will play a crucial role in empowering communities and providing opportunities for youth, thereby reducing the influence of CTG recruitment and fostering a culture of peace and resilience.

Contrary to concerns raised by some groups over the supposed impact on academic freedom, the inclusion of COCOPEA in the task force strengthens efforts to promote a secure and informed environment without compromising the independence of educational institutions. This information awareness will provide students tools and critical perspectives on current security issues and the risks of terror grooming, empowering them to make informed choices.

This collaboration between COCOPEA and NTF-ELCAC underscores a shared commitment to creating safe learning spaces that respect academic freedom. In this landmark partnership, both COCOPEA and the government through the NTF-ELCAC remain dedicated to the role of education in building a peaceful and resilient nation. ###

NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Dr. Joel M. Sy Egco, MPSA

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