President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday declared the province of Misamis Occidental as an insurgency-free area.
Speaking at the Tangub City Global College Sports Complex, the President acknowledged the long and difficult journey toward achieving peace and credited the collaborative efforts of the military, local government units (LGUs), and the national government.
“The declaration of Misamis Occidental as an insurgency-free province is a testament to the years of consistent and resolute security, peace, and community-building,” Mr. Marcos said.
He emphasized that dismantling insurgent leadership and reintegrating former rebels were critical steps in stabilizing the region.
Between 2021 and 2023, the province saw 51 barangays benefiting from Barangay Development Programs (BDPs), which the President described as “a very important and integral part of our peace efforts.”
He reported that 46 of these projects have been completed, with others in various stages of implementation. The initiatives, which include farm-to-market roads, water supply systems, and health station improvements, have played a critical role in reinvigorating once conflict-ridden areas.
“The experience of Misamis Occidental speaks volumes about the importance of addressing the root causes of insurgency… Peace will neither be attainable nor sustainable without accompanying development. These things work hand-in-hand,” Marcos said.
