Duterte eyes creating national task force tackling communist insurgency

MANILA—President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the creation of a national task force that will address the armed conflict involving communist rebels, the Palace said Thursday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte on Tuesday, October 30, convened the executive committee of the National Security Council at Ebuen Airbase in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, wherein the communist insurgency was among the top issues discussed.

Panelo said Duterte discussed with relevant government officials the “recent anarchical activities” of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front).

He said Duterte ordered the Department of Justice to pursue the proscription case against the CPP-NPA-NDF as a terrorist organization.

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The President also directed an in-depth investigation into the shooting incident in Sagay City, Negros Occidental, which resulted in the deaths of nine farmers.

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Duterte’s presidential bid was backed by communists due to his ties with Communist Party of the Philippines founding chair Jose Maria Sison and other local communist leaders.

However, ties soured between the two sides after Duterte accused communist rebels of continuing their attacks against government troops despite the ongoing peace talks.

Talks were repeatedly halted under Duterte. Another resumption was scheduled in late June but this was cancelled as the government sought to review all agreements entered into by the communists with past administrations.

The Duterte government then pushed for localized peace talks, but this was rejected by the CPP and its armed wing, the New People’s Army.

MINDANAO MARTIAL LAW

Also discussed during the meeting was the peace and order situation in Mindanao and the possible extension or lifting of martial law in the region, which is set to expire by the end of the year.

“Taking into account the lingering terrorist and communist threats, the EC-NSC committed to put into study the possible lifting or further extension of martial law therein,” Panelo said.

“Factors that were initially considered by the committee were the outlook of our brothers and sisters in Mindanao, an overwhelming majority of whom support martial law in view of the present situation they are in, the facilitation it will bring in rehabilitating Marawi and regaining normalcy in Mindanao, and indispensable constitutional and legal factors.”

Panelo said Duterte is “very much involved in various matters concerning our country but considers national security as one of the most vital concerns that must always be overseen by the government.”