By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday chaired a key security and development meeting, where the government reviewed progress and strategies to address insurgency through a whole-of-nation approach.
During the 9th Executive Committee meeting of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in Malacañang, Marcos also administered the oath of newly designated Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security and task force officials.
The meeting assessed evolving tactics of communist groups and the status of major government programs, including the Barangay Development Program (BDP) and reintegration initiatives.
The task force reported that the BDP has funded nearly 10,000 projects worth P46.85 billion, benefiting about 15.85 million Filipinos in over 5,600 barangays.
Completed projects include farm-to-market roads, classrooms, water systems, health stations, and electrification projects aimed at improving access to basic services in conflict-affected areas.
The task force also noted that the National Amnesty Program has drawn 13,647 applicants, reflecting increased participation in government reintegration efforts.
During the meeting, NTF-ELCAC officials emphasized the need to sustain development gains while addressing emerging threats such as recruitment, misinformation, and external support networks.
Key policy directions endorsed include the possible extension of the amnesty program, expansion of development funding, and strengthened inter-agency coordination.
