Peace initiatives continue to gain ground in Central Luzon as community members peacefully withdraw support from militant groups through sustained dialogue, engagement, and government-led development programs. (Jason de Asis)
CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Continued peace and development initiatives under the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) have led to the withdrawal of support from members of mass organizations in Bulacan and Nueva Ecija, authorities said.
In a statement on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3), in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and local government units, facilitated separate peace engagement activities on May 14 and May 18, 2026, resulting in the peaceful withdrawal of affiliation by affected individuals.
In Nueva Ecija, 14 members of the Samahan ng Liga ng Magsasaka sa Macabaclay formally withdrew their support during a community dialogue held in Barangay Macabaclay, Bongabon. The activity was led by personnel from the 703rd Infantry Brigade, 48th Infantry Battalion, and police units under the supervision of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company.
Meanwhile in Bulacan, two individuals affiliated with KADAMAY also withdrew their support during a separate engagement in Pandi, facilitated by the 301st Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 3, in coordination with local police units and intelligence personnel.
Authorities attributed the developments to sustained community engagement, dialogue, and information campaigns promoting government peace and development programs under the whole-of-nation approach of RTF-ELCAC. Participants were also provided assistance and underwent proper documentation and debriefing before returning to their communities.
PRO3 Regional Director Police Brig. General Jess B. Mendez said the growing number of participants in peace initiatives reflects increasing public trust in government efforts to address insurgency through peaceful and lawful means.
He added that PRO3 will continue to strengthen partnerships with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, and stakeholders to sustain peace and security across Central Luzon through continued engagement and community-based initiatives. (Jason de Asis)