Manila: The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) will focus on providing infrastructure and basic services to communities emerging from decades of armed conflict.

According to Philippines News Agency, NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Danilo Pamonag announced in a recent news release that he would collaborate with national government agencies, local government units, civil society organizations, and communities to advance the development of former conflict areas.

"The thrust places greater emphasis on ensuring that communities emerging from decades of armed conflict do not simply remain peaceful, but are provided with the infrastructure, basic services, livelihood opportunities, and responsive governance necessary to prosper," stated the task force.

The NTF-ELCAC highlighted that Pamonag's assumption of office signals a renewed push to enhance coordination and cooperation across government and communities as the country's campaign against communist insurgency increasingly shifts toward consolidating hard-won peace gains through governance and development.

One of the key programs under this initiative is the Barangay Development Program, which aims to provide infrastructure and basic services to geographically isolated and formerly conflict-affected communities. The projects include the construction of farm-to-market roads, water systems, electrification, health facilities, and schools, all intended to improve access to public services and economic opportunities.

Danilo Pamonag, a retired and highly decorated Army lieutenant general and former Department of Social Welfare and Development undersecretary, took his oath before Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on September 10, succeeding Ernesto Torres Jr.