The National Security Council (NSC) announced that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) aims to eliminate the remaining 11 New People’s Army (NPA) guerrilla fronts by the end of 2024. National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año emphasized the AFP’s commitment to this goal, alongside the dismantling of associated structures within various regional and sub-regional committees.
The AFP is intensifying military operations across regions like Abra, Northern Samar, and the Bicol Region to achieve this objective. NSC spokesperson Jonathan Malaya assured that the military is determined to conduct these operations relentlessly, despite the challenges.
General Romeo Brawner Jr., the AFP chief, noted the frequency of armed encounters, which occur almost daily, involving both the NPA and local terrorist groups. He highlighted the comprehensive and vigorous nature of these military campaigns, aiming to transition the AFP’s focus entirely to external defense post the insurgency’s resolution.
This strategy marks a significant push in the Philippines’ internal security efforts, aiming to stabilize regions affected by guerrilla activities and redirect defense priorities on a broader scale.