Press Statement

April 23, 2024

Good day to everyone! It has come to the attention of the National Secretariat, NTF ELCAC that certain communications within the former NTF ELCAC Viber groups have strayed significantly from our founding principles of unity, harmony and teamwork.

These chat groups were established as platforms against the CPP-NPA-NDF, aiming to harness the collective strength and resolve of both former and current members and stakeholders of the Task Force. It is disheartening, therefore, to witness these channels being misused to promote actions and deliver rhetorics that starkly contradict the principles of Unity, Peace, and Development that we pledged to uphold. Even more concerning is the divisive discourse against the current President, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who also serves as the Chairperson of this Task Force.

There should be no room for divisive politics or personal vendettas within the ranks of the NTF ELCAC. Our purpose is unequivocal. We are here to address and defeat the threats posed by the CPP-NPA-NDF and ensure the safety and security of our nation, rather than becoming entangled in political disputes. Our efforts must be aligned with the well-being and security of the people, untainted by personal biases and political agendas.

Hence, we call upon everyone to adhere strictly to the objectives that define our existence as a Task Force. This is not a call to silence dialogue or dissent within our democratic context, but a firm reminder that our primary allegiance is to the flag and the democratic ideals it represents. We are the stewards of peace and order, and our actions must reflect the integrity and purpose expected of us.

Let us redirect our focus towards our legitimate and critical mission: to secure our nation from the clutches of terrorism and to foster an environment where peace and development can flourish unimpeded.

We trust in your commitment and dedication to our cause. Let us move forward, united and resolute, in our duty to the nation.

Thank you.

USEC Ernesto Torres Jr

Executive Director, NS, NTF ELCAC