NTF-ELCAC HAILS CPP-NPA REDESIGNATION AS TERROR GROUP

April 18, 2024

National Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Executive Director and Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. commended the decisive action taken by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) in redesignating the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) as a terrorist organization under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Torres said the redesignation is “significant” because the government is aiming to eliminate this year all the remaining 11 weakened NPA guerilla fronts for total victory against the communist armed movement.

"We also welcome ATC Resolution Number 53, which identifies Elizabeth Pineda Principe, known by various aliases, as a terrorist individual," he stated.

Torres emphasized that the ATC conducted a thorough analysis of the data and reaffirmed the CPP-NPA's status as a terrorist organization.

"The CPP-NPA's continued classification is justified by its flagrant violations of Section 4 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), which includes acts of terrorism against government forces and instilling fear among the general population. The CPP-NPA's involvement in numerous crimes resulting in fatalities and widespread disruption underscore the significance of this classification," he explained.

According to the 2023 Global Terrorism Index (GTI), the NPA is ranked 15th among the 20 Deadliest Terror Groups of 2022, underscoring the severe threat posed by the CPP-NPA's terrorist activities.

This redesignation marks a critical step in our collective efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of all citizens.

Torres affirmed the Task Force's support for the ATC in addressing the challenges posed by terrorist organizations like the CPP-NPA.

"We remain committed to working tirelessly to achieve long-term peace, unity, and development in our country," he added.

Furthermore, the resolution, based on Resolution Number 53 (2023), meticulously outlines the reasons for designating Principe as a terrorist individual. It details her involvement in armed encounters, recruitment efforts, and planning sessions aimed at escalating and perpetuating terrorist activities. Principe's role as a high-ranking leader and Central Committee member of the CPP-NPA, as stated in the resolution, strengthens the ATC's decision.

This designation highlights the severity of Principe's involvement in terrorist activities, as evidenced by her direct participation in armed encounters, sabotage incidents, and recruitment efforts for the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army.

The ATC's thorough examination of evidence gathered by Philippine law enforcement agencies and the military has revealed probable cause for Principe's involvement in terrorist planning, facilitation, and execution. This designation is a pivotal step in our ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of the Filipino people. By identifying individuals like Principe who perpetrate acts of terror, we reinforce our commitment to protecting our nation against threats posed by extremist ideologies.

"We acknowledge the ATC for its unwavering commitment to enforcing the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and for remaining vigilant in combating the scourge of terrorism. Together, we are determined to confront and eliminate the threat of terrorism, ensuring a safer and more secure future for all Filipinos," Torres emphasized.

He further added that the Task Force supports the ATC's dedication to protecting the safety and security of all Filipinos from terrorist acts.

"We will continue to work relentlessly towards ending local communist armed conflict and addressing the root causes of insurgency. We will also collaborate with relevant agencies to prevent terrorist threats and transition towards initiatives that promote unity, peace, and development," he concluded.

NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Joel M. Sy Egco

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