Governor Pamela Baricuatro has created a provincial task force to strengthen peace, security, and development initiatives across Cebu.
The Cebu Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) was established under Executive Order No. 61, Series of 2025.
It aims to coordinate local and national efforts to address insurgency while promoting inclusive governance, social services, and community development alongside traditional security measures.
Aligned with the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, created under Executive Order No. 70, Series of 2018, Cebu’s PTF-ELCAC ensures that local peace initiatives complement national strategies.
The executive order highlights the principles of the 1987 Constitution, emphasizing peace, protection of life and property, and the general welfare of the people as pillars of democracy.
“The State shall promote a just and dynamic social order that ensures prosperity, independence, and improved quality of life for all, particularly through access to social services and employment,” the EO reads.
Governor Baricuatro will chair the task force, with Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco serving as vice-chairperson.
Members include senior officials from the security, justice, and local government sectors, as well as representatives from civil society organizations.
The task force will develop a Provincial Peace and Order Framework guided by the “whole-of-nation” approach, addressing the root causes of insurgency by integrating social services, development programs, and community engagement.
PTF-ELCAC is tasked with ensuring that government services and development programs reach conflict-affected and vulnerable barangays to reduce the appeal of insurgency.
The task force will also conduct strategic communication and advocacy to promote public awareness, build a constituency for peace, and counter misinformation.
Capacity-building for local leaders and peace bodies is a priority, enabling them to hold dialogues, interventions, and conflict resolution activities at the community level.
Advisory support will come from the Special Action Committee of the Provincial Peace and Order Council and faith-based representatives, including the Archbishop of Cebu.
The Executive Assistant for ELCAC will serve as Executive Director, overseeing daily operations.
Funding for the task force will be sourced from the Office of the Governor’s budget for peace, order, public safety, and poverty reduction initiatives. (SBA)
