BAGUIO CITY – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is urging churches, civil society groups, and government agencies to promote peace, reconciliation, and unity as the country observes Holy Week.
Speaking on the sidelines of a two-day major island action planning workshop for Northern and Central Luzon on Tuesday, NTF-ELCAC Strategic Communications head Rodrigo Lutao said the call for peace is rooted in both faith and national development.
“The true cost of violence is borne not on battlefields alone, but in homes, schools, markets, and places of worship – where innocent people simply seek to live in peace. Holy Week calls us to reflect on suffering, but also on the hope that suffering can lead to renewal,” Lutao said.
He said NTF-ELCAC continues to push its peace advocacy, especially during Holy Week, a period of reflection for Filipinos.
Lutao added that biblical teachings underscore respect for authority and unity.
“The Bible verses are very significant in shaping our understanding of peace and security in the Philippines, especially today,” he said.
He emphasized that the task force, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., remains committed to promoting peace and security nationwide, noting that stability is key to economic progress.
“For many years, our nation has endured the painful consequences of violence and terrorism. It is often our ordinary citizens who have paid the heaviest price – families torn apart, communities displaced, livelihoods destroyed, and innocent lives lost. Mothers and fathers have buried their children. Children have grown up amid fear and uncertainty. Entire communities have struggled to rebuild after the devastation left by acts of terror. On this solemn day, we remember these suffering communities,” Lutao said.
He added that nation-building requires unity, cooperation, and respect for institutions that uphold the rule of law, calling on Filipinos to work together in addressing the root causes of violence.
“For peace is not merely the absence of conflict – it is the presence of justice, compassion, and solidarity,” Lutao said.
In a message to participants, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the government’s approach to peace and order has evolved from the 1980s, when efforts were largely focused on security operations and psychological operations.
“Our fighters from (the) communist movement are now almost decimated, so we have to change strategy, not just on the operation plan and psy-ops. The best way is (to) inform the public of the truth. The truth hurts, but it is the truth,” Magalong said. **Liza Agoot
