Manila, Philippines - A recent statement by a United Nations (UN) rapporteur recommending the abolition of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has sparked significant public outcry in the Philippines. Enrique Manalastas, father of Jhed Tamano, responded on social media, challenging the rapporteur's understanding of the situation and advocating for the voices of those directly affected.

According to Philippines News Agency, Manalastas expressed frustration over the UN representative's remarks, emphasizing the need for a more grounded perspective, particularly from families like his who have been personally impacted. His daughter Jhed Tamano and another self-confessed New People's Army (NPA) member are currently facing a perjury case after recanting their statements following surrender last September.

The controversy centers on the UN rapporteur's portrayal of events involving environmental defenders, which has been contested by figures like Manalastas. This public disagreement highlights a disconnect between international perspectives and local experiences.

The reaction to the UN rapporteur's statement extended beyond individual responses. Netizens expressed their disapproval of the proposed disbandment of NTF-ELCAC, citing the task force's effectiveness and accusing the UN Special Rapporteur (UNSR) of bias.

During a virtual press conference hosted by the Integrated Communications Office Center (ICOC) and NTF-ELCAC's Media Bureau, National Youth Commission (NYC) Chairman Undersecretary Ronald Gian Carlo Cardema suggested declaring the UN rapporteur 'persona non grata' in the Philippines. Undersecretary Paul Guttierez of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security also questioned the rapporteur's understanding of the situation in the Philippines.

In the Senate, Senator Ronald dela Rosa criticized the UN rapporteur's recommendation, warning against interference in the country's internal affairs. Dela Rosa, former chief of the Philippine National Police, suggested that the rapporteur may have a limited view of the government's efforts.

Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla also warned the UN rapporteur against involvement in the NTF-ELCAC's operations, emphasizing the task force's role as an internal mechanism of the government.

The NTF-ELCAC, meanwhile, expressed regret that the UN rapporteur missed the opportunity to engage with their stakeholders, including human rights and peace advocates, to better understand the task force's initiatives and projects aimed at promoting peace in historically unstable areas.