Gapay orders military to ensure proper execution of Anti-Terrorism Law

October 21, 2020

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Gen. Gilbert Gapay ordered the military to ensure  proper and deliberate execution of Anti-Terrorism Law.

“We know how this Law would greatly help us in building our confidence and poise in our operations. I am confident, and I know for a fact that every man and woman of the AFP is responsible, accountable, and objective enough to enforce this law,” Gapay said Tuesday as he spoke to officers and enlisted personnel of the Central Command at Camp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City as part of his continuing command visits.

“While we continue to contribute and help in the national efforts to curb COVID-19, our main priority remains to be our triumph in eliminating Communist Terrorist Groups and local terrorist groups, which makes sense, for our enemies are also taking advantage of these trying times to pursue their propaganda. We cannot let that happen. We must not let that happen,” he said.

“Let us work hard towards intensified operationalization of the Executive Order No. 70 for we already earned significant gains through this whole-of-nation approach. With the continuous involvement of the local government units, local communities, and other stakeholders, we can reach greater heights and yield more successes in this fight against insurgency,” he added.

Gapay issued his order after the implementing rules and regulation for the  Anti-Terrorism Law was approved last week.

Capt. Jonathan Zata, AFP public affairs chief, said during his visit Gapay was welcomed with military honors led by Centcom Commander Lt. General Roberto Ancan before having an executive session with the key officers.

Zata said Gapay also congratulated the soldiers for managing the situation in the area, especially Cebu which was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“With full trust and confidence, I am certain that Team CENTCOM, through the steadfast leadership of Lieutenant General Ancan, will continue to contribute and work not only for the good of our Armed Forces but most importantly, for the welfare and betterment of our nation and our people,” said Gapay.

Zata said "Centcom has recorded a total of 533 surrenders of both regular members and supporters of communist terrorist groups from January 1 to October 15, 2020."

"It also reported 28 enemy fatalities and 74 apprehensions in legitimate combat operations during the period. Meanwhile, 173 high-powered and low-powered firearms, 75 improvised explosive devices, and 42 encampments were seized from the enemy," he said.

The military is one of the agencies that compose the National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) which implements a whole-of-government approach towards achieving lasting peace and development for the country, Zata stated.

"While the AFP does combat operations to defeat communist terrorists and destroy its support system, relevant agencies are mandated to conduct programs and projects towards the unimpeded delivery of government’s basic services, he added. Robina Asido/DMS