Misamis Occidental declared 'insurgency-free'

The province of Misamis Occidental has been declared free from insurgent threats.

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. graced the declaration of an insurgency-free Misamis Occidental held at the Tangub City Global College Sports Complex on Friday.

''After years of consistent and resolute security, peace, and community-building, we have succeeded in our campaign to end the decades of conflict in the 60 barangays in your province that were once in the clutches of insurgent movements,'' Marcos said in his speech.

''We have successfully dismantled the key leadership of the former insurgents operating in Misamis Occidental, which have now led to their reintegration in today’s society,'' he added.

Marcos tasked local government units of the province to intensify collaboration with various government agencies, partners, and other stakeholders ''to thwart any posturing or coming back of terrorist groups or any of their financiers or supporters may still be contemplating.''

''Let us harness the power of peace to uplift this province, this region, and this nation to unparalleled heights. Let Misamis Occidental stand as a shining example of what can be achieved when we work for the greater good together,'' Marcos said.

A press release from the local Philippine Information Agency stated that Misamis Occidental has been facing challenges brought by guerilla fronts Joji and Sendong of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) for more than 50 years. 

After the dismantling of the final rebel group in December 2023, Major General Gabriel Viray, commander of the Philippine Army's 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, announced the official declaration that the province has become free from insurgents. 

In a statement, Misamis Occidental Governor Henry Oaminal expressed gratitude for the opportunity to cooperate and collaborate with military forces in order to attain common goals of peace and order in every community.

"This milestone is a testament to the strength of our unity, and what we can achieve when we lead and work with it in our minds and our hearts," Oaminal said. —VAL/VBL, GMA Integrated News