TABONTABON, Leyte— Eleven municipalities in Leyte’s second district have been formally declared as having attained a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC), a milestone that local officials believe will strengthen investor confidence, spur economic activity, and accelerate development across their communities.
The May 29 declaration, led by Maj. Gen. Peter Burgonio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, marks the culmination of years of peace and security efforts by local government units, security forces, and community stakeholders aimed at eliminating insurgency-related threats and maintaining public safety.
Among the municipalities granted SIPSC status were Tabon-Tabon, Dulag, Capoocan, Tunga, Mayorga, Pastrana, La Paz, Dagami, Julita, MacArthur, and Barugo.
Tabon-Tabon Mayor Efren Redoña said the declaration sends a strong signal to potential investors that the municipalities are safe and ready for business expansion and economic growth.
“Peace and order are essential for development. Investors are more likely to establish businesses in municipalities where security and stability are assured,” he said.
Although Tabon-Tabon was not considered a major insurgency hotspot, Redoña noted that its location previously made it a transit area for members of the New People’s Army (NPA) moving between neighboring municipalities.
The SIPSC declaration is part of the government’s broader campaign to address insurgency through a whole-of-nation approach that combines security operations, governance reforms, infrastructure development, and the delivery of basic services to conflict-affected communities.
Military officials said the recognition signifies that local governments and communities have demonstrated their capability to sustain peace, prevent the resurgence of insurgent influence, and maintain a secure environment conducive to development.
Of the 14 municipalities comprising Leyte’s Second District, only Carigara and Jaro have yet to receive SIPSC status.
Burauen became the district’s first municipality to earn the declaration in September 2024.
Local officials expressed optimism that the peace milestone will encourage more investments in agriculture, tourism, commerce, and small-scale industries, creating employment opportunities and improving the quality of life for residents.
For the military and local government leaders, the declaration is not merely a recognition of improved security conditions but also a foundation for long-term economic progress and sustainable development throughout Leyte’s Second District.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
