President Marcos declared the province of Misamis Occidental as an insurgency-free area on Friday.
Speaking at the Tangub City Global College Sports Complex, Mr. Marcos acknowledged the long and difficult journey toward achieving peace, crediting 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,” he said.
He said the dismantling of insurgent leadership and the reintegration of former rebels were key 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,” the President said.
“Peace will neither be attainable nor sustainable without accompanying development. These things work hand-in-hand,” he added.
Governor Henry Oaminal echoed the President’s sentiments during his welcome address, reflecting on the province’s transformation from a conflict zone into a hub for peace and development.
Oaminal recalled the violence that plagued the province in past decades, citing personal experiences with insurgency-related tragedies during his tenure as Kabataang Barangay president in the 1970s.
Oaminal described the declaration of the province as insurgency-free as a moment of triumph and transformation, saying it symbolizes hope, unity, and progress.
“To my fellow Misamisnons, this celebration is not just a testament to the victory over insurgency but a restoration of our province and a symbol of hope, unity, and the bright future that now lies ahead for our province,” the governor said.
Oaminal highlighted his administration’s focus on building infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, to improve access to essential services and boost economic activities in conflict-affected areas.
He noted that 95 percent of roads connecting to the hinterland barangays have been concretized, helping to end insurgency by fostering socioeconomic development.
“Our vision for Misamis Occidental has always been centered on peace, progress, and happiness,” Oaminal said.
As the province moves forward, Oaminal urged Misamisnons to continue protecting and nurturing the peace they have fought hard to achieve.
“Peace is a shared responsibility,” Oaminal said.
“It is something we must protect and nurture, as it is the foundation of the sustainable progress and development we envision for Misamis Occidental,” he added.
For over 50 years, Misamis Occidental had faced various threats posed by communist armed group New People’s Army (NPA), particularly its guerilla fronts Joji and Sendong of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC).
The insurgency-free status was formally declared following the death of Aprecia Rosete, an NPA commander of WMRPC. Rosete was killed in an encounter with the Philippine Army in Zamboanga del Norte in February.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Marcos declares Misamis Occidental insurgency-free.”
