By Priam Nepomuceno | Philippine News Agency
On Wednesday, June 18, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said the national government’s peace and development efforts are now paying off with the completion of 5,455 barangay infrastructure projects and the reintegration of 1,690 former rebels into peaceful civilian life.
In a statement, the anti-insurgency body said these milestones are a “double victory” as previously underserved communities are finally receiving essential development, while former combatants are embracing a future free from armed violence.
The NTF-ELCAC added that these positive developments are clear proof that the government’s Whole-of-Nation approach in combating insurgency is working.
As of June 13, a total of 5,455 out of 6,045 projects under the Barangay Development Program (BDP) for fiscal years 2021–2024 have been completed, reflecting a 90.2% completion rate.
These projects include farm-to-market roads, potable water systems, school buildings, health stations, and rural electrification—basic services that directly address the root causes of insurgency.
NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said, “This is not just about building infrastructure; this is about delivering justice.”
He added that every completed project is a promise fulfilled, which prevents Filipinos from turning to armed resistance.
Reintegrating former rebels into society
Meanwhile, under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), 1,690 former rebels—comprising 1,037 ex-New People’s Army (NPA) members and 653 “Militia ng Bayan” members —have received government assistance as of April 30, 2025.
Support includes housing, livelihood training, firearms remuneration, and reintegration services tailored to each beneficiary’s needs.
Torres emphasized, “Reintegration is a cornerstone of sustainable peace. Through E-CLIP, we help our fellow Filipinos reclaim their dignity, reconnect with their communities, and reject the lies of violent extremism.”
The BDP, a flagship initiative of the NTF-ELCAC, provides funding support to each cleared barangay previously affected by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
Torres said these funds empower local governments to implement programs that directly uplift communities long neglected by conflict.
The NTF-ELCAC also assures the public that it remains fully committed to completing the remaining projects and ensuring that all qualified former rebels receive the necessary support.
He concluded, “Peace is a shared responsibility. Every road paved, every school built, and every life restored brings us closer to our goal of a truly peaceful and developed Philippines.” (PNA)
