MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) acknowledged the decision of the Taguig City Regional Trial Court Branch 266 acquitting five alleged Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) leaders of two counts of kidnapping with murder.

In a statement, NTF-ELCAC said it respects the independence of the judiciary but noted that the acquittal of Tirso Alcantara, Dionisio Almonte, Diony Borre, Renante Gamara, and Raul Razo underscores the difficulties in pursuing cases against insurgents.

“While the court has ruled on these specific charges, it is crucial to recognize the documented history and operational roles of these individuals within the CPP-NPA-NDF at the time of their arrest,” the task force said.

NTF-ELCAC described Alcantara as a CPP Central Committee member and NPA military strategist linked to deadly ambushes in Southern Luzon, while Gamara was identified as a former Metro Manila Party Committee head involved in labor agitation. Borre was linked to former CPP spokesperson Ka Roger Rosal, Almonte was described as a veteran organizer, and Razo as a long-time NPA member facing multiple charges.

“These are not mere activists, as some claim, but individuals who held significant positions within an organization designated as terrorist, responsible for decades of violence and exploitation targeting Filipino communities,” the task force said.

The body described the ruling as “a profound disappointment” for victims’ families, citing the challenges of presenting testimonies and evidence in insurgency-related cases.

It added that the acquittal highlighted what it called the CPP-NPA-NDF’s “sophisticated use of lawfare” to evade accountability.

“The NTF-ELCAC views this as a call to action to strengthen collaboration, enhance investigative capabilities, and ensure the effective presentation of complex insurgency-related cases in court,” it said.

Executive Director Ernesto C. Torres Jr. said the ruling “does not diminish our resolve” and reiterated the task force’s commitment to support law enforcement, amplify the voices of victims, and implement programs addressing the root causes of insurgency.

“The acquittal of these senior cadres is a chapter closed in court, but the broader struggle for justice and lasting peace continues,” Torres said.