The Joint Regional Task Forces (JRTFs) and National Clusters of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) presented the accomplishments of the whole of nation approach against communist terrorist group (CTG) during the recently-concluded 1st Quarter Accomplishment Report on April 24, 25, 30, and May 2, 2025.
Guided by the National Action Plan for Unity, Peace, and Development (NAP-UPD) approved by the NTF-ELCAC Chairman, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., JRTFs and National Clusters exhibited improved responsiveness to the current security environment in their existing programs and initiatives aiming to address the root causes of insurgency. Some of the major efforts highlighted are the successful implementation of the Barangay Development Program (BDP) and the establishment of Local Amnesty Boards across the country to encourage more members of the CTG to return to the fold of the law.
The National Security Adviser, Secretary Eduardo M. Año commended the achievements of JRTFs and National Clusters which contributed to the state’s relentless campaign against terrorism. On the culminating ceremony of the 4-day event, the NSA emphasized the need to sustain these efforts to address the threat posed by the CTG and prevent the possibility of their resurgence.
“Recovery efforts by the CPP-NPA-NDF are ongoing and one way of doing this is by exploiting political spaces and elections especially as the midterm polls is fast approaching. Let me emphasize: We cannot allow even the slightest room for resurgence.” Sec. Año said.
The NSA also assured the continuance of the NTF-ELCAC with its proven effectiveness in countering terrorism and facilitating development, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).
“Let me also make it very clear: the NTF-ELCAC will not be abolished. The Task Force remains indispensable—not only as a counter-insurgency mechanism but also as a model of effective government convergence. We have been the strategic engine behind community empowerment, peacebuilding, and good governance and we continue to do all of these. Under the President’s directive, the NTF-ELCAC will continue to exist, evolve, and strengthen—aligned with the vision of unity, peace, and sustainable development for our nation.” Sec. Año said.
