Lives were lost, properties were destroyed and people were living in fear and uncertainty, because of the acts of terrorism perpetrated by the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), a security problem plaguing the country for decades. But that is no longer the situation today!  

The eradication of communist terrorism across the country is one of the priority concerns that the current government has been seriously dealing with. President Duterte believes that we cannot march towards progress unless we put an end to this threat to society.

We are all afflicted with the problem of insurgency as well as beneficiaries of peace and development. That is why, it is important that we should tune into the president’s final State of the Nation Address (SONA) with the rest of the country on July 26 to be apprised of the government’s initiatives and progress that has been achieved so far to defeat the communist terrorism.

As far as the insurgency is concerned, I appreciate the achievements of President Duterte’s administration and the success of the National Task Force to End the Local Communist Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The fear and chaotic situation in the villages is now becoming a thing of the past. The barangays that were once the stronghold of the insurgents or terrorists are now empowered and free as they embrace peace and development through the Barangay Development Program (BDP), “a flagship program conceptualized to address insurgency by bringing long-term and sustainable solution and basic services to communities in need.”

The development approach as a major component of the strategy for winning the peace is shedding light and hopes in the attainment of lasting peace. It fosters people’s trust and support as they openly manifest their desire to cooperate to stop communist terrorism.

It even gave the rebels the courage to surface and avail the opportunities given to them as they have seen the sincerity of the government to eradicate all issues that the CTG use to exploit the people.

Despite all the challenges and uncertainties we face, this is a remarkable accomplishment that needs to be appreciated and supported. A major step towards putting an end to the insurgency problem proves that President Duterte’s promise is not just a lip service.

Before we start complaining and asking questions, let us first watch the SONA, because it is the road map for our nation’s future and maybe the answers to our questions. This may also inspire us to be involved and think of a way to contribute to the government’s programs in order to create a progressive nation we all deserve for. – Gab Daguio, GabDagz21@gmail.com