Catanduanes has made history as the first province in the Bicol Region declared insurgency-free, according to the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) of the Philippine Army (PA).

The announcement was made during a ceremony at the Provincial Capitol Dome in Virac on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, attended by key officials and community members.

Governor Joseph Cua acknowledged the challenges faced in achieving the milestone, as well as the collaboration between government agencies and residents.

The event culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), with stakeholders pledging to sustain the province's stable internal peace.

The signatories included Major General Noe Alberto Q. Peñafiel of the 9th Infantry Division, Police Brigadier General Andre Perez Dizon of PNP Region 5, and Commodore Ivan E. Roldan of Coast Guard Region 5, represented by Coast Guard Lieutenant Junior Grade Kenny E. Villafuerte.

Military officials credited the success to strategic operations and the commitment of Catanduanes' peace-loving community to progress and security.

Despite the declaration, authorities vowed to continue safeguarding the province's peaceful environment.