Legazpi City declared insurgency-free

LEGAZPI CITY, ALBAY, Philippines — The Philippine Army has declared Legazpi City under Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status after recording no armed encounters or insurgent activities in the city over the past 12 months.

The declaration was made on Monday, Nov. 9 during a ceremony at the Legazpi City Convention Expo Hall A, recognizing the efforts of the local government, military, police, national government agencies and community stakeholders in maintaining peace and security.

Lt. Col. Cliff Chester L. de Ocampo, commander of the 31st Infantry (Charge) Battalion of the 9th Infantry Division, credited local officials and residents for their cooperation in achieving the milestone.

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READ: 59 Bicol areas, entire Catanduanes declared insurgency-free – Army

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“It is all about the cooperation of people and other stakeholders, plus the government agencies, in attaining a peaceful and secure community,” he said.

Councilor Charlton Lajara, chair of the city council’s committee on peace and order, said the declaration was based on the Army’s assessment showing no armed encounters or insurgent activities in the city over the past year.

Mayor Hisham Ismail said the improved security situation, particularly in the city’s southern communities, could help attract investors and encourage businesses to explore previously less-developed areas.

BGen. Ariel Reyes, acting commander of the 9th Infantry Division, said the declaration would give residents more opportunities to live peacefully, improve their livelihoods and pursue better economic prospects.

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“An insurgency-free community could also boost investor confidence, encourage business establishments, generate jobs and accelerate development,” Reyes said.

He said sustaining peace would require community ownership and continued cooperation among residents, local officials and security forces.

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Asked about the insurgency situation in the Bicol region, Reyes said it was nearing insurgency-free status.

“The remaining subregional communities of the New People’s Army (NPA) and communist rebels had been dismantled, weakening their organizational structure and capabilities,” he said. /cb