NTF-ELCAC Engages Civil Society in Shaping Nat'l Action Plan for UPD

October 16, 2024

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) took a proactive step towards a more inclusive and sustainable peace and development agenda for the Philippines by seeking input from civil society organizations (CSOs) for its proposed National Action Plan on Unity, Peace, and Development (NAP UPD) 2024-2028.

During the dialogue held at La Breza Hotel in Quezon City, Undersecretary Ernesto C. Torres, Jr., NTF-ELCAC Executive Director, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving lasting peace and development.

The event brought together leaders from the Confederation of Filipino Workers, DepEd Teachers Union, National Teachers College, Hands Off Our Children Movement, Solidarity of Parents and Educators Empowerment, Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations, National Defense College of the Philippines, Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches, Youth with a Mission SHIPS PH, Employers Confederation of the Philippines, ABS-CBN Foundation, Women’s Business Council, Mindanao Indigenous People’s Council of Elders and Leaders, Institute for Economics and Peace, US Embassy - Regional Labor Office, United Nations - Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Synergeia and other organizations to ensure that the government’s roadmap reflects the needs and aspirations of the Filipino people.

"We are requesting our civil society partners to suspend judgment and understand the true nature of the task force," he said. "This dialogue is an opportunity to forge partnerships and work together towards our common objective of peace and development."

The NAP UPD focuses on three key tracks:

- Uniting Stakeholders: Building resilience against threats to peace and unity by engaging all stakeholders, including local and international Filipino communities.

- Pursuing Peace: Supporting the security sector's efforts in healing and reconciliation.

- Harmonizing Development: Fostering accessibility and inclusivity through socio-economic and community development interventions.

The NTF-ELCAC is seeking input from CSOs on these tracks to ensure the plan reflects the needs and perspectives of various communities. The dialogue is expected to provide valuable insights that will be incorporated into the final NAP UPD, which will be presented to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., for his approval.

"The task force is here to listen to your comments and enhance our action plan," Torres told participants at the forum. "We hope to capture your insights so we can reflect them in our report to the President."

The event highlighted the NTF-ELCAC's commitment to supporting a vibrant civil society and expanding civic spaces for partnerships and collaboration. The dialogue marks a significant step towards building a more inclusive and sustainable peace and development agenda for the Philippines.

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NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Joel M. Sy Egco

09155506969