Dipolog City, Philippines — December 5, 2024
The Zamboanga Peninsula has been officially declared insurgency-free, marking a pivotal achievement in the Philippine government’s decades-long counterinsurgency efforts. The announcement was made during the 4th Quarter Regular Meeting of the Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC) Region 9 at the R&B Pavilion Hall, Mibang Hotel, in Dipolog City.
This declaration underscores the successful dismantling of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA). The operation also led to the eradication of seven guerilla fronts and three regional units of the CPP-NPA, leaving the region with zero insurgency-affected barangays and no active Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members.
Unified Efforts Lead to Historic Success
The milestone was achieved through relentless operations by the 1st Infantry Division (1ID) of the Philippine Army, supported by the Peace, Law Enforcement, and Development Support (PLEDS) cluster. This collaboration included the Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, and local government units, working together to neutralize threats and secure peace in the Zamboanga Peninsula from 2019 to 2024.
Among the key milestones:
- Neutralization of Key Leadership: The death of WMRPC Secretary Aprecia Alvarez Rosette on February 27, 2024.
- Final Surrender: The last three active members of the WMRPC surrendered to Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Government on July 19, 2024.
- Comprehensive Dismantling: All guerilla fronts and regional CTG units were eradicated, leading to zero CTG presence.
- Official Recognition: The WMRPC’s dismantling was declared by the National Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center on November 27, 2024.
Leadership Commends Collaborative Success
Maj. Gen. Gabriel C. Viray III, Commander of the 1ID, hailed the achievement as a testament to the dedication of both security forces and local stakeholders:
“Our unwavering commitment to ending local communist armed conflict has culminated in this historic milestone. The Zamboanga Peninsula is now insurgency-free, a reflection of the hard work and sacrifices of our troops and the invaluable support of our local leaders and communities.”
Hon. Manuel M. Bonoan, Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways and Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security IX, emphasized the importance of unity in achieving peace:
“The eradication of seven guerilla fronts and three regional CTG units underscores the power of collaboration. This victory paves the way for sustainable development and lasting peace.”
A Future of Stability and Development
To sustain the gains, the JRTF-ELCAC 9 and 1ID plan to tackle socio-economic issues that could foster future unrest. Security sustainment measures and efforts to prevent CTG recruitment are also priorities.
The Zamboanga Peninsula’s new status as insurgency-free positions it as a symbol of peace and progress. The achievement not only enhances security but also opens doors to economic growth, improved quality of life, and brighter prospects for its residents.