NTF-ELCAC supports UCCP-Bukidnon, calls for members to reject CPP-NPA-NDF Influence

July 02, 2024

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has expressed support for the Bukidnon Fellowship of Congregational Churches (BFCC) and its call for members to reject the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

The BFCC, a group of UCCP churches in Bukidnon, has been actively advocating for the autonomy of local churches and promoting unity within the UCCP.

Just recently, the group issued a statement condemning the influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF, which they believe has been infiltrating the church and causing division among members.

“After decades of terrorism, the CPP-NPA-NDF has no place in our churches or in our communities,” stressed NTF-ELCAC Executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr.

"Their ideology is based on violence and division, and it has no place in a society that seeks peace and progress,” he added.

Torres said the NTF-ELCAC is committed to supporting the BFCC and other groups working to counter the influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

“The task force believes that by working together, we can build a stronger and more peaceful society for all Filipinos. Let’s unite in promoting peace and development under the Bagong Pilipinas ," Torres said.

The BFCC cited recent incidents in Bukidnon where church leaders, allegedly influenced by the terror group, evicted churchgoers and padlocked church gates, forcing congregations to find alternate places of worship.

These actions, according to the BFCC, are a direct attack on the principles of Christ’s teachings and the autonomy of local churches.

In their statement, the BFCC said "We call upon all members of the UCCP to join us in prayer and action. Let us reclaim our churches from the clutches of these divisive influences. Let us restore the sanctity of our worship and the unity of our fellowship. Let us rebuild our communities on the foundation of Christ's love and teachings. And let us revive our commitment to serving the needy and spreading the Gospel. We urge our leaders to reflect on their actions and return to the true path of Christ."

Torres commended the BFCC for its courage in speaking out against the CPP-NPA-NDF’s influence and for its commitment to upholding the principles of the UCCP.

The task force also expressed its support for the BFCC’s call for unity and reconciliation within the church. -- 30--