The Association of General and Flag Officers Inc. (AGFO) has expressed support for Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.’s opposition to resuming national-level peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
In a letter addressed to Teodoro, the organization said it was formally conveying its “unwavering support” for the Defense chief’s position against reopening peace talks with the communist movement.
The letter, signed by AGFO chairman and president, retired Police Major General German Doria, stated that the group supports the government’s current approach centered on localized peace engagements, reintegration, and dismantling remaining guerrilla fronts through community-based initiatives.
“As an institution dedicated to preserving the Republic and defending democracy, AGFO recognizes the government’s effort that focuses on localized peace engagements, amnesty, and reintegration while prioritizing the dismantling of remaining guerrilla fronts through local initiatives,” the letter read.
The retired military and police officers’ group also said members of the CPP-NPA-NDF should instead participate in the “legitimate political process.”
AGFO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting state institutions and maintaining national sovereignty, adding that it stands ready to provide the Department of National Defense with “collective expertise and institutional support.”
The group further commended Teodoro for what it described as his “steadfast resolve” in pushing efforts to end the insurgency without returning to formal peace negotiations.
“We congratulate Secretary Teodoro for his steadfast resolve in ending the insurgency by blocking any attempt to resume peace talks at a time when the enemy is flat on the ground,” the organization said.
Teodoro has repeatedly expressed reservations about reviving national peace talks with communist rebels, maintaining that the government should focus instead on localized peace initiatives and security operations aimed at weakening insurgent groups.