NCRPO, AFP unit to secure Metro Manila from threats

MANILA, Philippines — The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday forged a long-term agreement to secure Metro Manila from communist rebels and other threat groups.

Under the plan dubbed “Implan Kalasag,” which will last until Dec. 31, 2022, the two sides will conduct joint security, peace and order and development support operations to defeat all threat groups and criminal elements, including communist insurgents.

NCRPO chief Director Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar and Brig. Gen. Cristobal Zaragoza of JTF-NCR signed the three-year agreement.

“This is to ensure security and maintain public safety that is fundamental for socio-politico-economic progress in the National Capital Region,” Eleazar said in a statement.

The agreement is in response to the executive order of President Duterte mandating the government to address the problem of communist insurgency.

Eleazar clarified that their action is a proactive measure and does not mean there is a legitimate threat from communist insurgents in Metro Manila.

“There is no threat. This is just a concerted effort of our whole of nation approach, that is why we are doing our share,” he said.

Based on the agreement, the NCRPO will support the military in defeating communist rebels who could be hiding in Metro Manila. Eleazar said they will assume a complimentary role in fighting local and foreign terrorist groups.

The NCRPO, on the other hand, will take the lead role in law enforcement operation and legal offensives. It will also provide security to vital infrastructure and neutralize criminal gangs.