NTF-ELCAC sees final push against rebels

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-LCAC) vowed on Wednesday a comprehensive strategy focused on peacebuilding that would address both security concerns and the root causes of rebellion.

In an interview on DAILY TRIBUNE’s Straight Talk, Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., NTF-ELCAC executive director, shared an optimistic but cautious outlook on the government’s battle to end the insurgency.

“If we continue to follow the programs for rehabilitation, addressing the root causes of the insurgency, if we continue to help them, I could say that we would finally defeat the more than 50 years of insurgency in our country and be able to give better options and opportunities for the marginalized sector to participate in nation building,” Torres said.

“We are hopeful that the last guerrilla front in Camarines will soon be dismantled,” he added.

The NTF-ELCAC, established under Executive Order No. 70 in 2018, is tasked with dismantling the communist insurgency by addressing not only the military aspect but also the underlying socio-economic issues that fuel it.

These include poverty, lack of education, and the lack of basic services in isolated and disadvantaged communities.

According to Torres, the NTF-ELCAC has successfully dismantled 89 active guerrilla fronts nationwide, with only one remaining in the Bicol region, which is expected to be dismantled soon.

But Torres explained the fight is not just about taking down armed groups — it’s about uplifting communities that have long been neglected and vulnerable to insurgent recruitment.

“Our goal is to dismantle not just the guerrilla fronts but the very conditions that feed the insurgency — poverty, lack of education, and the absence of basic services,” he said.

A key part of NTF-ELCAC’s approach is the Barangay Development Program (BDP) which targets some of the country’s most underserved and conflict-prone areas.

According to Torres, since its launch in 2021, the BDP has reached 4,830 barangays, with over P36 billion invested.

The flagship program aims to provide infrastructure and socio-economic support to underserved communities, encouraging them to reject insurgency and be reintegrated into society.

The BDP seeks to restore public trust in the government by delivering concrete benefits such as improved healthcare, quality education and sustainable livelihood programs.

Torres emphasized that direct engagement with communities is essential for achieving lasting peace.

Alongside the BDP, the NTF-ELCAC also runs the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program which helps former rebels reintegrate into society through rehabilitation, psycho-social support and skills training.

The recently concluded National Peace Advocate Summit saw former high-ranking CPP-NPA leaders pledge their support for the peace effort, aligning with the National Action Plan for Unity, Peace and Development.

Torres highlighted the creation of a national-level organization for former rebels to address their concerns and ensure their full integration into society.

Torres, however, stressed the fight is not yet over.