NTF-ELCAC says gov't on track to curb remaining insurgents

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 4, 2023): NTF-ELCAC says gov't on track to curb remaining insurgents (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The government is on track to wipe out the remaining New People's Army (NPA) units still operating in the country following the declaration of Palawan as an insurgency-free province.

The latest feat brings the country closer to the Marcos administration's vision of a united, peaceful and prosperous nation, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said in a Facebook post Monday.

"The NTF-ELCAC lauds this achievement as a significant breakthrough that reflects the collective efforts of the local government, the security sector and civil society. " the agency stated.

The body also reiterated its commitment to promoting peace in all aspects of its work -- from diplomacy and security to development and human rights.

"We believe that peace is not only the absence of violence but also the presence of justice, equality, and dignity for all. We are one in attaining unity, peace, and development," the NTF-ELCAC said.

During the rites for the declaration of Palawan as insurgency-free in Puerto Princesa City on Sept. 1, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said the country continues to make significant strides in attaining peace and order.

“Patuloy pa rin ang proseso ng paghahanap ng kapayapaan para sa lahat ng komunidad ng Pilipinas (The process of finding peace for all communities in the Philippines is still ongoing),” he stressed.

The Chief Executive also attributed the successful implementation of the peace initiatives and anti-insurgency efforts to the government’s “whole-of-nation” approach.

Marcos lauded the “collaborative and inclusive” efforts of the Regional and Provincial Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, Provincial Peace and Order Council, partner agencies and Palawan residents to end insurgency in the island.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1209110