TACLOBAN CITY – The Joint Regional Task Force 8 to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF8-ELCAC) outlined its counter-insurgency measures in Eastern Visayas during the ‘Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas’ media conference on Tuesday, March 18.
The discussion highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to curb communist movements and promote sustainable development in conflict-affected areas.
During the media conference, concerns were raised about the remaining capabilities of the members of the New People’s Army (NPA), particularly their potential to mobilize support during the upcoming elections.
Lt. Col. Joemar Buban, assistant chief of staff for Civil-Military Operations of the 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, detailed measures aimed at preventing these groups from using mass media and other platforms to spread their ideology and gain followers.
“Our Mobile Community Support Sustainment Program continues, with our armed and security forces constantly moving around to ensure that these groups have no access to the masses,” he stated.
Mobile community support teams have been deployed to address security concerns in vulnerable areas, ensuring that communities feel protected and supported in their transition to peace.
Additionally, JRTF8-ELCAC, in collaboration with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) and the National Amnesty Commission (NAC), reaffirmed its commitment to transforming conflict-affected areas into thriving communities.
With significant budget allocations, infrastructure projects, and livelihood programs are being implemented to provide long-term solutions and diminish the appeal of insurgency.
The government also emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of insurgency, such as poverty and lack of economic opportunities, to achieve lasting peace and development.
(LANCE ARCHIE TORING, LNU STUDENT INTERN)
