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NTF-ELCAC to further strengthen development programs as CTG leadership collapses


The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) once again reiterates its commitment to end all communist terrorist groups (CTGs) and intensify its development initiatives and whole-of-nation approach, as the NTF-ELCAC Secretariat expressed pride over recent accomplishments of the government in the campaign against the CTGs.

“This month pa lang, marami na tayong accomplishments in our efforts to end the CTGs. I am commending the EastMinCom (Eastern Mindanao Command) for the recent dismantling of 6 CTG units in Eastern Mindanao. Earlier this month, Palawan was declared insurgency-free, a major victory for the WesCom (Western Command) and Palawan local government. It is now time to double our efforts in facilitating development projects in these areas,” NTF-ELCAC Secretariat Executive Director Emmanuel Salamat said on Saturday, December 17.

Because of recent events and successful military operations in different regions, the CTGs are expected to significantly weaken due to a crisis in leadership, he added.

As the death of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)- New People’s Army (NPA)- National Democratic Front (NDF) founder Jose Maria Sison was announced by the CTGs and several news outlets, Salamat urged the public to continue pursuing the path to lasting peace, even as he stressed the NTF-ELCAC remains focused on its objectives and direction.

“Enough for so much blood spilled, lives lost, the awful grief sown by violent terrorist groups such as the CPP/NPA/NDF… Let us discourage our deceived brothers and sisters from clinging to their hopes on a false ideology that political change and national well-being can only be achieved by way of the barrel of a gun,” said Salamat.

Salamat also urged peace advocates and stakeholders to make use of “huge opportunities to make a difference by giving our passion and commitment for