Quezon declares stable internal peace and security in province

Quezon Gov. Helen Tan during the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement and the declaration of stable internal peace and security or SIPS at the Quezon Convention Center, Lucena City.

LUCENA City — Quezon Gov. Helen Tan expressed her gratitude to different law enforcement authorities and the military for sustaining the now insurgency-free province of Quezon during the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) and the declaration of stable internal peace and security (SIPS) here at the Quezon Convention Center.

Tan emphasized the need to embody and give life to the words stated in the resolution, ensuring that the residents of Quezon province experience a peaceful and secure environment.

READ: 2 Quezon island towns now ‘insurgency-free,’ says police

During the commemoration of the 125th Independence Day, the ceremonial signing of MOA and the declaration of SIPS took place, symbolizing the province’s sustained freedom from insurgency.

The historic declaration of SIPS signifies the successful suppression of heinous crimes committed by the communist group CPP-NPA.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Quezon Provincial Director Darell Dizon reported that due to the rigorous implementation of Executive Order 70, many rebels have surrendered to the authorities and are now beneficiaries of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

ECLIP is an assistance program offered to former rebels, providing them with various forms of support, knowledge, and skills training to promote non-violent reconciliation. Ten rebel returnees who attended the event were declared as beneficiaries of the program, receiving interventions for their peaceful reintegration into society.

Police Lt. Gen Rhoderick Armamento, Area Police Command – Southern Luzon Commander, and Lt. Gen Efren Baluyot, Southern Luzon Command Commander, expressed their hopes for further collaboration in the future to completely eradicate insurgency in the province.

Vice Governor Anacleto “Third” Alcala, together with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Quezon, showed their support for the historical event. Additionally, the mayors of the 39 municipalities and two cities of Quezon province were recognized by the provincial government for their efforts in maintaining peace and order in their respective areas.

The governor extended her gratitude to the partner agencies under the Provincial Peace and Order Council, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the DILG, for making the event possible. She urged them to continue their support in fostering peace in the province.

“Let us unite. Quezon is the most challenging province in our region. But on this day, we will move forward and progress,” Governor Tan concluded.