MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday expressed support for extending the government’s amnesty program and strengthening community-based strategies as part of efforts to prevent any resurgence of communist insurgency in the country.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. made the statement after attending the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Executive Committee meeting held Wednesday, which was presided over by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The meeting assessed the next phase of efforts to maintain gains in peace and security nationwide.

Officials discussed reinforcing a “whole-of-nation” approach, including proposals to extend amnesty coverage for former rebels, increase development assistance in former conflict areas, and improve coordination among government agencies involved in peace and security initiatives.

Nartatez said that while police operations remain part of the government’s strategy, greater emphasis will be placed on community engagement and countering misinformation linked to insurgent groups.

“Law enforcement is always an option, but community engagement and information drive to counter their propaganda will be the top priority in our long-term campaign,” he said.

He added that sustaining peace requires not only security operations but also building trust at the grassroots level, especially in communities previously affected by conflict.

The task force also pushed for stronger legislative support for reintegration programs and the institutionalization of coordination mechanisms among agencies involved in the peace process.

The PNP said it will continue aligning its programs with national peace efforts, combining security operations, development initiatives, and information campaigns to keep communities stable and insurgency-free.

NPO NEWS TEAM | PNA - PR