Context and Purpose of the Task Force
- The Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) aims for peace and security in the Bangsamoro region and adjacent areas (Regions IX to XII).
- One key aspect of CAB is the disbandment of PAGs to stabilize regional security.
- Despite ongoing campaigns by law enforcement to dismantle PAGs, these groups persist due to underlying causes like low human security, clan wars, political dynasties, and use of auxiliaries.
- A specialized task force is needed to focus on disbanding PAGs and to facilitate the phased decommissioning of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Establishment and Composition of the National Task Force
- The National Task Force for the Disbandment of PAGs (NTF-DPAGs) is established.
- It is chaired by the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
- Members include representatives from:
- Department of National Defense
- Department of Justice
- National Intelligence Coordinating Agency
- Philippine National Police (PNP) Intelligence and Operations
- PNP Regional Directors (ARMM, Regions IX to XII)
- Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Intelligence and Operations
- AFP Peace Process Office
- Western Mindanao Command
- National Bureau of Investigation
- Government peace negotiation panel and related agencies
Functions and Implementation
- The Task Force is responsible for policy formulation, planning, and implementation of PAG disbandment programs.
- It coordinates with relevant bodies and entities as provided in the CAB.
- Must develop implementing rules and guidelines subject to the Executive Secretary's approval.
Secretariat and Support System
- A Secretariat will be organized to provide administrative and technical support to the Task Force.
Monitoring and Reporting
- A Monitoring and Reporting System will be developed jointly with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).
- This system will track progress and evaluate the effectiveness of disbandment activities.
Duration and Termination of the Task Force
- The Task Force shall dissolve upon the signing of the Exit Agreement between the Government and MILF or upon determination that PAGs are dismantled.
Asset Disposition
- Upon dissolution, the Task Force's assets will be distributed among member agencies as decided by the Task Force.
Government Support and Cooperation
- All government branches, departments, local government units, and state-owned enterprises are encouraged to fully support and assist the Task Force.
Legal Provisions
- Invalidity of any provision shall not affect the validity of the rest of the Circular.
- Any conflicting orders or regulations are repealed or modified accordingly.
- The Circular is effective immediately upon publication.