NTF-ELCAC, worst nightmare of CPP-NPA-NDF, Torres says

December 9, 2024

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has emerged as a thorn in the side of communist groups, becoming their worst nightmare.

“That is why, (with) every opportunity, they would like to have it abolished,” said Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., Executive Director of NTF-ELCAC Secretariat, during a recent press conference to mark the 6th anniversary of the government’s anti-insurgency body.

Torres said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Chairperson of NTF-ELCAC, assured the public, especially those most vulnerable to communist groups’ deception, that the task force stays because it provides genuine service to Filipinos.

“For six years now, it was able to bring in the needed infrastructure in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. It was able to provide facilities for the education of these barangays, provide the needed opportunity for our kababayans, our fellow Filipinos, in far-flung areas,” he said.

He added that Filipinos now have NTF-ELCAC, which has been actively working to address insurgency and eliminate the influence of communist rebels in the country.

“We have now our road map focused on socio-economic development until we reach the objective of really empowering the people to be more resilient against the threat of terrorist groups and other groups, particularly the CPP-NPA-NDF,” Torres said, referring to the Communist Party of the Philippines, its armed group New People’s Army, and political arm National Democratic Front.

NTF-ELCAC, he added, has been relentless in its efforts to counter communist propaganda and recruitment tactics, aiming to bring peace and stability to communities affected by insurgency.

He said through a multi-faceted approach that includes development programs, information campaigns, and community engagement, the task force has made significant strides in weakening the grip of communist groups with the surrender of thousands of rebels, dismantling of 85 out of 89 guerilla fronts, and weakening of the remaining four.

“So, we will now celebrate the successes, the achievements, and the partnerships that we had for the past six years,” he said, adding that while some praise its efforts in restoring peace and order, others have raised concerns about possible human rights violations and the militarization of communities.

Despite the mixed reactions, he said the NTF-ELCAC remains steadfast in its mission to eradicate the influence of communist insurgency in the Philippines.

Collective efforts

Meanwhile, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Affairs Office chief, said the military's commitment and sacrifice have been crucial in weakening communist groups' capabilities.

“To our brave soldiers, men and women in the military profession, your unwavering dedication and sacrifice have been instrumental in weakening the capabilities of the CPP-NPA-NDF,” Trinidad said, quoting AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr.

He added: “Your commitment to protecting our nation and ensuring the safety of our people has brought us to the brink of a new era of peace.”

“To the Filipino people, your trust, support, and cooperation have been vital in our collective efforts to end the transition from conflict to development is a testament to our shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous Philippines,” Trinidad said in the same press conference.

He said vigilance and whole-of-nation approach are needed to address the challenges. ###

NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Dr. Joel M. Sy Egco, PhD, MPSA

09155506969