CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Calabarzon clarified that the government is not against leftist groups but is focused on countering armed rebellion.
Brig. Gen. Ronald Jess S. Alcudia, Commander of the Philippine Army’s 202nd Infantry (Unifier) Brigade, emphasized the need to differentiate between leftist ideologies and armed rebellion, stressing that the issue is not political beliefs but the use of violence to push an agenda.
“We often misuse the term ‘leftist.’ There’s nothing wrong with having leftist views. The real issue is engaging in armed struggle. That’s what we need to emphasize in every discussion,” Alcudia told the media during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas media forum on March 18.
Alcudia also pointed out that when the Anti-Subversion Law was repealed, being a communist was no longer a crime, but armed struggle should still be condemned along with the NPA.
The RTF-ELCAC also shared that it has made significant achievements in the fight against insurgency in Calabarzon, with all five provinces in the region now declared under Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS).
Alcudia attributed the improved security situation to the concerted efforts of peace and law enforcement agencies, national government units, and the public.
While the level of armed threats in the region has significantly decreased, Alcudia cautioned the public to remain vigilant, as it does not mean that the threat is completely gone.
Alcudia recounted a recent encounter in Famy, Laguna, on November 28, when a group attempted to return. However, with the help of local communities and officials, security forces successfully prevented their resurgence.
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and other law enforcement intelligence units remain vigilant against any attempts by the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army to regain a foothold in Calabarzon,” Alcudia said during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum on March 18.
He reiterated that achieving sustainable and inclusive security requires a collective effort, aligning with the objectives of Executive Order No. 70, which institutionalizes a whole-of-nation approach rather than just a whole-of-government approach.
“It is crucial that we work together to resolve the problem of insurgency. This is not just the responsibility of the government; it is the responsibility of every Filipino,” he said.
Alcudia added, “We are focused on our internal security mission, and we remain professional, adhering to our chain of command and all legally constituted authorities.” (KA-PIA4A)
