ILOILO City – The 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army supports President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s decision not to abolish the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).
Major General Marion Sison, commander of the 3ID, expressed appreciation for President Marcos’ commitment to maintaining the taskforce, citing its vital role in enhancing peace and security, especially in Western and Central Visayas.
Sison credited the NTF-ELCAC for various infrastructure and rapid impact projects that have improved accessibility and opportunities in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).
President Marcos reinforced his support for the NTF-ELCAC following a Supreme Court decision that identified red-tagging as a significant threat to life, liberty, and security.
Marcos clarified his position during an interview, stating, “There’s no reason to abolish it because of allegations of red-tagging. These accusations are not carried out by the government but by various other entities.”
Instead, he said, “Our efforts have actually helped those who once opposed the government, significantly reducing internal security threats through the NTF-ELCAC.”
General Sison also emphasized the effectiveness of the NTF-ELCAC in combating the decades-long insurgency within the 3ID’s jurisdiction. The taskforce has facilitated collaboration among government agencies, local governments, and communities to address the roots of insurgency through open dialogue and targeted programs.
Since its inception in 2018, the NTF-ELCAC has been instrumental in the 3ID’s regional peace campaigns, with its Barangay Development Program bringing long-term socio-economic solutions to formerly insurgency-ridden villages, said Sison.
“The taskforce’s success in reducing internal security threats nationwide is a testament to its effectiveness, and the President’s acknowledgment of this role is a strong validation of our efforts,” General Sison said.
He affirmed the 3ID’s commitment to continuing its collaboration with other NTF-ELCAC members and stakeholders to ensure stable internal peace and security throughout Western and Central Visayas./PN
