Tapul, Sulu — October 16, 2025. The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tapul has officially established the Municipal Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC) as part of the national government’s initiative to promote peace and order, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).
The ceremony was led by Hon. Mayor Nasser T. Daud Jr., Chairperson of the MTF-ELAC, together with Vice Mayor Hon. Nasser Daud Sr., who serves as Vice-Chairperson. The event was attended by members of the municipal council, heads of barangays, representatives from the military and police, and stakeholders from the private sector and civil society organizations (CSOs).
Among the distinguished guests present were LTC Roy R. Dalumpines INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry Battalion, 11th Infantry Division, Philippine Army; 1LT Roylando C. Garcia (INF) PA, Civil Military Operations Officer; 1LT Jaythron Dumaga (INF) PA, Bravo Company Commander; PLT Raphael Nicanor D. Hachuela, Chief of Police of Tapul MPS; and Mr. Adnan Mohammad, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO) of Tapul.
The event also gathered the Sangguniang Bayan members and all barangay captains of Tapul, along with representatives from the private sector, including fisherfolk, farmers, women’s organizations, and religious leaders. Various CSO groups such as Phe Beta Kappa, KRK, Alpha Phi Omega, and Alpha Sigma Phi also took part.
The creation of MTF-ELAC aligns with the Whole-of-Nation Approach under Executive Order No. 70, signed by former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. This approach seeks to address the root causes of local armed conflict through inclusive development, public service delivery, and intersectoral cooperation.
The task force aims to implement projects that promote livelihood opportunities, education, healthcare services, and other essential needs to empower communities and build sustainable peace in Tapul.