Build on gains: NTF-ELCAC charts sharper, unified action for lasting peace

August 07, 2026

QUEZON CITY — The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) called for sharper, collective commitment to sustain peace gains and address shortcomings, setting a determined course for genuine and lasting development at the close of its three-day First Semester CY 2026 Accomplishment Reporting and Strategic Planning Workshop, Thursday.

In his closing message delivered by Deputy Director General Benjamin Madrigal, National Security Adviser and NTF-ELCAC Vice Chairperson Eduardo S.L. Oban Jr. commended collective gains that expanded government reach, weakened armed influence, and brought development to vulnerable communities.

“This campaign rests on shared responsibility across all sectors — no single office can carry this burden alone,” Oban emphasized, urging synchronized engagement and strict accountability down to regional levels.

Echoing this resolve, NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Undersecretary Ernesto C. Torres Jr. highlighted that reports and plans are not mere documents, but living guides and promises to the Filipino people.

“The CTG thrives on division and disinformation. Our strength lies in unity, convergence, and resilience of our people,” Usec. Torres declared, urging stakeholders to move beyond paperwork and translate strategies into decisive action against the group’s divisive tactics.

The workshop reviewed first-semester results, identified implementation gaps, and aligned result-focused priorities — reinforcing that lasting peace demands strong government action alongside active private and civic participation.

Among the workshop highlights and key outcomes presented:

Efforts strengthened public support, community participation, and reintegration: 4,368 former rebels received livelihood aid, 10,687 got employment assistance, and 2,398 underwent social case management. Security operations reduced CTG influence; development programs and multi‑sector partnerships expanded services and lowered poverty in covered areas. Gaps noted include the need for better reporting compliance, stronger coordination, limited resources, and uneven implementation in remote communities.

Speaking for the private sector, MAP President and NTF-ELCAC ExeCom member Dr. Donald Lim presented three strategic partnership projects to expand collective action — Project KAPWA for nationwide peace advocacy; Project BALIK-TRABAHO for industry-led skills training and jobs for former rebels; and Project BAYANIHAN to mobilize civic and business groups for livelihood and community growth in conflict-affected areas.

He affirmed the private sector’s commitment to partner with government, media, schools, and civic groups — turning shared goals into inclusive progress and tangible peace for all communities.

The gathering drew representatives from 18 Joint Regional Task Forces and 12 National Clusters, plus partner agencies — united in assessing progress, addressing gaps, and mapping priorities for the second semester.

The officials affirmed that success is measured not by how many activities are conducted, but by improved lives and restored stability in the grassroots.

Moving forward, Usec. Torres urged all stakeholders to rise above bureaucratic hurdles, protect hard-won peace gains, and ensure no isolated or disadvantaged community is left behind — building a nation of lasting unity, shared prosperity, and genuine security.