National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Statement on the 75th Annivers
December 10, 2023
The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) joins the international community in commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This landmark document serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every individual, regardless of their background or circumstance.
The NTF-ELCAC acknowledges the UDHR's crucial role in shaping the global human rights landscape. Its principles have guided the development of numerous international treaties and domestic legal frameworks, contributing significantly to the advancement of human rights worldwide.
However, despite the significant progress made, we recognize that the fight for universal human rights remains far from over. In the Philippines, the continued existence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) poses a significant threat to the enjoyment of human rights, particularly in rural communities.
The CPP-NPA's use of violence, intimidation, and deception has resulted in countless human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances, and the recruitment and use of child soldiers. These acts are a blatant disregard for the dignity and fundamental rights of individuals and communities.
Therefore, on this occasion of celebrating the UDHR's 75th anniversary, the NTF-ELCAC reaffirms its commitment to:
Protecting and upholding the human rights of all Filipinos, especially those living in areas affected by the communist insurgency.
Pursuing peaceful and sustainable solutions to the armed conflict, prioritizing dialogue and reconciliation efforts to achieve lasting peace.
Promoting the rule of law and good governance, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to justice and security.
Empowering local communities to become active participants in the peacebuilding process.
We call upon all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and the international community, to join us in this endeavor. By working together, we can create a future where the rights of all Filipinos are respected and protected.
Let this 75th anniversary of the UDHR serve as a renewed commitment to building a world where human rights are not just aspirations, but a lived reality for everyone.
Usec. Ernesto C. Torres, Jr.
Executive Director, NS, NTF-ELCAC
#NTF-ELCAC
Released by:
Dir. Alexander D. Banatao
Directorate for Strategic Communications
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