Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
November 4, 2021

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte praised the officials of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) for the collective efforts they have been implementing in putting an end to the five-decades long communist insurgency in the country.

In his speech during the Joint Meeting of the NTF – Regional Task Force (RTF) ELCAC in Region IV-B, President Duterte reaffirmed his administration’s strong stance in protecting peace and security in the land by maintaining a holistic and whole-of-nation approach in dealing with communist terrorists. Through this, he encouraged all communities and local government units to unite with the government in dealing with these kinds of problems.

“On this note, I want to emphasize that local chief executives and community leaders bear the task of addressing crime and illegal drug situations in their respective localities. Also remember that local action, if done consistently and dependably, advances our collective goal of securing and safeguarding the nation,” the President said.

He reminded community leaders to be at the forefront and to always remember their responsibilities to help those “who strayed away from the law so that they may find hope in the promise of reintegration and new beginnings.”

“That is why, in our fight against lawlessness and insurgency, I strongly encourage our local chief executives to synergize their efforts with the National and Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict,” the President added.

Likewise, the Chief Executive reiterated his assurance to work hand-in-hand with concerned government agencies to further push initiatives and programs that will secure a lasting peace for the country.

“Guided by the strong sense of nationalism and commitment to serve the Filipino people, I am certain that we will be able to attain a more peaceful and progressive future for all,” he said.

Anchored on good governance, patriotism and values enhancement, the joint meeting served as an opportunity for members in the MIMAROPA Region to talk about ways to further enhance the government’s collective efforts in addressing current challenges regarding local insurgency and terrorism, as well as illegal drugs, criminality and corruption that continue to affect peace and security, not just in the Region, but in the whole country.

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