TACLOBAN CITY – The historic island town of Limasawa in Southern Leyte was declared to be under a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) on Thursday, November 28, 2024.
Mayor Melchor Petracorta, Chairman of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC), expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders who played a crucial role in achieving this SIPSC status for Limasawa Island. He emphasized that said milestone paves the way for further progress in the municipality, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Noel Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, lauded the residents, and the municipal and barangay officials, for their dedication to ensuring a secure community. Vestuir highlighted the collaborative efforts of local government units and their communities in achieving the SIPSC.
Military and police officials were also present during the declaration ceremony, including Colonel Rico Amaro, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade; Major Darwin Cajada, Battalion Executive Officer of the 14th Infantry (Avenger) Battalion; and Police Captain Edwin Cordina, Chief of Police for the Limasawa Municipal Police Station.
The declaration of SIPSC was highlighted by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Pledge of Commitment, as well as the release of white doves, symbolizing peace and new beginnings.
Limasawa is known as the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines. In March 1521, Ferdinand Magellan arrived at Limasawa after landing on Homonhon. He sent Father Pedro de Valderrama to prepare for a mass and inform Rajah Kolambu of their arrival. On March 31, 1521, Father Valderrama celebrated Easter Sunday mass, after which Magellan ordered a large cross to be erected on a hill facing the sea.
According to Pigafetta’s accounts, two significant events occurred in Limasawa. The first event was Magellan’s blood compact with Rajah Kolambu, which was the first blood compact between a Filipino and a Spaniard. Second, the Easter Sunday mass held on Limasawa is recognized by historians as the “First Mass in the Philippines.” (By Marie Tonette Marticio / EV Mail November 25-December 1, 2024 issue)
