NTF-Elcac adopts paradigm shift in peace building efforts

NTF-Elcac logo. INQUIRER FILES

MANILA, Philippines – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) is adopting a “positive peace” framework, signifying a paradigm shift in its peace building efforts amid the declining threat of communist insurgency.

NTF-Elcac executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said there is a need to acquire “new lenses” in the pursuit of peace, noting that it should not be seen as merely the absence of conflict or violence.

“Peace encompasses the integrity of the social, political, and cultural superstructure; and the economic base of a society,” he said in a news release Wednesday.

Torres, who spoke before participants during the “Positive Peace” training at the Sheraton Hotel Manila on Tuesday, said such perspective signifies a paradigm shift in the NTF-Elcac’s approach to peacebuilding.

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He cited the need to move beyond traditional security measures and adopt a more holistic approach that considers the social, political, cultural and economic factors contributing to a peaceful and prosperous society.

“As peacebuilders, we need to acquire new lenses in our collective effort to attain a just and lasting peace, and inclusive development for a united people,” Torres said.

The one-day training, hosted by the non-profit think tank Institute for Economics & Peace in collaboration with the NTF-Elcac, equipped participants with tools and strategies to integrate “positive peace” principles into its cluster action plan.

Lawmakers’ support hailed

The anti-insurgency body also welcomed House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez’s commitment to deliver vital funding and infrastructure to communities freed from communist insurgency.

Torres, in a separate statement, said Romualdez’s pledge will significantly advance the government’s mission of ensuring sustainable peace and development in these conflict-affected areas.

“This is a crucial step in our shared goal of building a lasting peace.  Speaker Romualdez’s commitment to funding and implementing critical barangay development projects are key to transforming these former insurgent strongholds into vibrant, thriving communities,” he added.

Romualdez earlier reaffirmed the House’s support for the Barangay Development Program (BDP), which has been instrumental in fostering inclusive growth in insurgency-free areas.

“We in the House of Representatives are fully committed to supporting the peace-building efforts in recently cleared areas. To consolidate these gains, I will advocate for more infrastructure and barangay development projects, which are crucial for long-term stability,” Romualdez declared.

“Rest assured, I will explore legislative measures to support this objective and exert efforts to convince our local executives in joining us for a whole-of-government approach in securing peace for our homeland,” the House Speaker added.

Torres stressed that these funds are essential for addressing the root causes of insurgency, such as poverty and the lack of access to basic services. With thousands of barangays needing assistance, he called for further expansion of the BDP to sustain momentum and extend development to all vulnerable communities.

“Speaker Romualdez’s call for enhanced funding ensures not only that these areas remain insurgency-free but also that they flourish economically and socially,” Torres noted, underscoring the strategic importance of long-term investments in infrastructure and local services.

Torres also highlighted the alignment of Speaker Romualdez’s statements with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent pronouncement as NTF-Elcac chairman.

Marcos earlier reiterated the administration’s commitment to the BDP, stating that development is essential for lasting peace.