Published on: June 13, 2024 | Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay – June 07, 2024 – The Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC) IX convened its 2nd Quarter Regular Meeting for CY 2024 on June 07, 2024, at Badsbrotel Suites in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay. 

The gathering, which saw participation from key stakeholders and officials, concentrated on pivotal areas essential for maintaining peace and fostering development in the region. Paisal O. Abutazil, CESO III, acting as the Secretariat of JRTF IX and Regional Director of DILG IX, outlined the proposed programs, projects, and activities for FY 2024 under the Support to Barangay Development Program (SBDP) for the beneficiary barangays. RD Abutazil’s presentation highlighted the continued dedication to enhancing development efforts in conflict-affected zones.

Alben Venturanza, Chairperson of JRTF IX and OIC-Regional Director of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) IX, discussed the issues and concerns highlighted by the 11 clusters of JRTF-ELCAC IX. This discussion offered a thorough overview of the challenges encountered and the strategies being put in place to address them. 

MGEN Gabriel C. Viray, III, who holds the position of Secretariat of JRTF IX and Commander of the 1st Infantry Division (1IB) of the Philippine Army, provided an update on the peace, order, and security conditions in the SBDP beneficiary barangays. Additionally, MGEN Viray outlined the Community Support Program plans and goals for Zamboanga Peninsula for 2025-2026, emphasizing the strategic measures intended to maintain peace and promote development. 

The meeting included the presentation of the CY 2023 JRTF IX Regional Gawad Parangal, spearheaded by RD Venturanza, which honored the outstanding efforts of various stakeholders in fostering peace and development in the region. Furthermore, RD Abutazil oversaw the distribution of financial assistance to beneficiaries of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), highlighting the government’s commitment to aiding former rebels in their integration into society.

The task force continues to be committed to promoting peace and development initiatives, partnering with various stakeholders to secure enduring peace and advancement in Zamboanga Peninsula.