Considering the decreasing trend of communist terrorist groups in Western Visayas, President Marcos believes that declaring the region as insurgency-free is achievable.
Marcos expressed this during a situation briefing with the Philippine Army in Camp General Macario Peralta Jr. in Jamindan, Capiz on Friday, Oct. 6.
He expressed optimism that clearing the region from insurgency is achievable, citing the decreasing trend of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) force shown since 2019.
“We must keep on going and we’ll wait for your invitation to come back when you declare this area insurgent-free… I think it’s achievable,” he said.
The President told the Philippine Army that they need to ensure that these groups will no longer have the platform to finance its operations. He also commended them for sustaining peace efforts in the region.
“I would (like to) congratulate you for the good progress that you’re making. Keep the pressure going…I know that the other units are also doing it in terms of the financing. But perhaps, you could put more emphasis on that,” he said.
According to reports presented by the Philippine Army 3rd infantry Division Commander, Major General Marion Sison, the armed group is taking advantage of minority groups, usually the indigenous peoples.
They would pose as a humanitarian group who seeks financing from international institutions but the money they get from the approved project proposals they submit abroad would not be remitted fully to the projects of their target minor groups.
The 3rd Infantry Division is part of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Spear, along with 301st Infantry Brigade, 302nd Infantry Brigade, 303rd Infantry Brigade, and Joint Task Group Cebu, with areas of operations covering Western and Central Visayas.
The JTF Spear is currently pursuing the remaining communist terrorist groups (CTGs) in their area, which include five guerilla fronts.