TACLOBAN CITY – The Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of St. Bernard, Southern Leyte has declared the municipality in a State of Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) this week.
Apart from the declaration, all members of the MTF-ELCAC signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Pledge of Commitment towards long-lasting peace. Mayor Edito Mulig expressed his municipality’s gratitude to all stakeholders who were instrumental in achieving the state of SIPSC in St. Bernard. He emphasized that the milestone paves the way for further progress in St. Bernard, enhancing the quality of life for their constituents.
Colonel Rico Amaro, 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Philippine Army, Deputy Brigade Commander reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to securing the community against the threats of NPAs. He also congratulated the constituents, municipality, and barangay officials for their cooperation and support in sustaining internal peace and security in the area.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Noel Vestuir, 802nd IB Commander, lauded the collaborative efforts of the members of the MTF-ELCAC and the support of the community that led to attaining a significant milestone in terms of peace and security. “Natutuwa ako na marami nang mga munisipyo dito sa Southern Leyte ang nasa SIPSC na. Hindi lang ito dahil sa efforts ng military kundi effort ito ng lahat. Kaya naman lubos ang aming pasasalamat sa inyong suporta sa mga programa ng gobyerno na tiyak na magdadala sa mga komunidad ng kapayapaan at kaunlaran,” BGen Vestuir added.
SIPSC refers to a status declared by the Philippine Army for areas where there has been no New People’s Army (NPA) activity for several years, and no residents are identified as active armed rebels. (By Marie Tonette Marticio / EV Mail March 24-30, 2025 issue)
