TABON-TABON, Leyte — With 11 municipalities in Leyte’s 2nd District now officially declared under a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC), local leaders are looking beyond security milestones and toward a future marked by greater investments, stronger local economies, and sustained community development.
The declaration, held on May 29 at the Tabon-Tabon Municipal Gymnasium, recognizes the successful efforts of local government units, security forces, national government agencies, and communities in eliminating insurgency influence and establishing an environment conducive to growth and progress.
The municipalities granted SIPSC status were Tabon-Tabon, MacArthur, Dagami, Barugo, Pastrana, Tunga, Capoocan, La Paz, Dulag, Mayorga, and Julita.
Officials said the declaration is more than a recognition of improved peace and order conditions. It also serves as a foundation for accelerating socio-economic development, attracting investments, expanding livelihood opportunities, and improving the delivery of government services.
The SIPSC status is awarded to localities that have demonstrated the capability to maintain peace and security while preventing the resurgence of insurgent activities. It forms part of the government’s whole-of-nation approach to ending local communist armed conflict through a combination of security operations, infrastructure development, social services, and responsive governance.
During the ceremony, local chief executives pledged to sustain the peace gains achieved in their municipalities through programs centered on good governance, youth engagement, community participation, and inclusive development.
The 8th Infantry Division (8ID) of the Philippine Army underscored that the achievement was made possible through close collaboration among government agencies, local officials, civil society groups, and residents.
Major General Peter Burgonio, commander of the 8ID, described the declaration as a testament to the collective commitment of communities and institutions in building lasting peace.
“These changes are not solely the result of the efforts of the security sector. They are a clear outcome of unity among government agencies, local governments, and citizens who chose to stand for peace,” he said.
“This is not merely a ceremony. It is a historic recognition that these communities are now enjoying stable peace, security, and unity as foundations for continuous development,” Burgonio added.
Representing Leyte Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla, Board Member Mildred Joy Que commended the men and women of the security sector for their role in safeguarding peace and stability across the district.
“The peace we celebrate today did not happen by accident. It was built because our uniformed personnel remained vigilant, courageous, and committed to serving even when their sacrifices went unnoticed,” she said.
Que stressed that sustaining peace will require continued cooperation among local governments, communities, and development partners.
“Perhaps the greatest tribute we can give our uniformed personnel is to ensure that the peace they protect continues through unity, respect, and cooperation,” she added.
For local officials, the economic benefits of the declaration are among its most significant outcomes.
Tabon-Tabon Mayor Efren Redoña said peace and stability are key factors considered by investors when deciding where to establish businesses.
“If there is peace and order in a municipality, investors will come because no one wants to put up a business in an area affected by conflict,” Redoña said.
He noted that although Tabon-Tabon was not a major insurgency-affected area, its location previously made it a transit point for members of the New People’s Army moving between neighboring towns.
With the addition of the 11 municipalities, only Carigara and Jaro remain without SIPSC status among the 14 towns comprising Leyte’s 2nd District. Burauen became the district’s first SIPSC-declared municipality in September 2024.
Officials expressed optimism that the peace milestone will pave the way for increased investments in agriculture, tourism, small enterprises, and infrastructure projects, ultimately creating jobs and improving the quality of life for residents.
As Leyte’s 2nd District moves forward, leaders say the challenge now is to transform the hard-earned gains in peace and security into long-term development that benefits every community.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
