Manila: The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) maintained that it is not in the business of red-tagging and is engaged in informing and protecting vulnerable sectors like the youth against recruitment attempts by the communist insurgents. 'We are not red-tagging; we are truth-telling,' NTF-ELCAC executive director and Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said in a statement Thursday. He emphasized that NTF-ELCAC's mission is to safeguard the public, particularly the youth, from deceptive recruitment practices by front organizations linked to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples' Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). Torres reiterated the same in a roundtable discussion organized by Ateneo de Davao University on Oct. 11. The NTF-ELCAC executive director, along with other officials of the body and former rebels, addressed the red-tagging allegations head-on. "It is our responsibility to ensure the safety of our youth from organizations that, while claim ing to champion democracy, are actively working to further the violent agenda of these terrorist groups," Torres stressed. The discussion also touched on accusations that NTF-ELCAC is demonizing groups like Anakbayan and other youth organizations. 'We respect legitimate activism as a crucial part of our democracy. However, there is a line between advocacy and recruitment into terrorism. NTF-ELCAC is dedicated to exposing those organizations that serve the interests of the CPP-NPA-NDF, to protect our youth from being misled," he pointed out. Further allegations claim that red-tagging by NTF-ELCAC has led to harassment, enforced disappearances, and human rights violations which Torres categorically denied, reaffirming that the task force's operations are conducted within the framework of the law. 'Our mission is to promote peace and development, and we do not condone any form of violence or harassment. Any suggestion otherwise is a baseless attempt to discredit the government's legitimate efforts to combat terrorism," he further stressed. Torres also emphasized the NTF-ELCAC's commitment to transparency and public safety. 'The government offers peaceful avenues for addressing grievances, including economic programs and local peace initiatives. It is the terrorist organizations that manipulate the idealism of the youth and lure them into violence,' he explained. Torres also highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to provide better opportunities for the youth through education, livelihood programs, and reforms aimed at uplifting communities. Source: Philippines News agency