Manila:The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has attributed recent attacks and criticisms against the Barangay Development Program (BDP) to the waning influence of communist insurgents. The NTF-ELCAC made this connection on Thursday, highlighting the relationship between the declining insurgency and the scrutiny faced by the BDP.

According to Philippines News Agency, Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, spokesperson for the Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC), addressed criticisms regarding alleged irregular or non-existent BDP projects in rural areas. Among these criticisms is the claim that 16 BDP projects in Iloilo are 'ghost projects.'

Gonzales argued that the criticisms lack popular support and refuted claims that the public backs the critics, describing such assertions as unrealistic. He emphasized that communities welcoming peace and development have increasingly rejected armed insurgency and its narratives.

Gonzales also pointed out that anti-government propaganda cannot negate the tangible benefits provided by the BDP, such as the construction of roads, classrooms, and the restoration of livelihoods. These projects have brought government services to previously underserved communities.

The NTF-ELCAC reported that approximately PHP44.90 billion worth of development investments have been allocated by the BDP from 2021 to 2027. These investments are aimed at 5,638 villages that were once under the influence or control of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front, benefiting over 16 million Filipinos with infrastructure and essential services.