VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon – Valencia City has been officially declared insurgency-free following a ceremony held on October 10, 2025, at the Valencia City Hall Covered Court, marking a historic milestone in the city’s pursuit of lasting peace and development.
The declaration was jointly made by the City Government of Valencia, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and other partner agencies. The event celebrated the collective success of local and national peacebuilding initiatives that have effectively dismantled insurgent influence in the area.
In addition to the official declaration, officials also conducted a ceremonial signing declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as Persona Non Grata. The activity was highlighted by the release of doves, symbolizing peace, freedom, and hope for a secure and progressive Valencia City.
A former rebel also shared a testimony during the ceremony, expressing gratitude for government programs that helped him reintegrate into society and start a new life. His story served as a testament to the effectiveness of reintegration and livelihood initiatives aimed at encouraging former combatants to return to the fold of the law.
The program’s success was attributed to the strong leadership and unity of the local administration, led by Mayor Amie Galario and the 10th Sangguniang Panlungsod headed by Vice Mayor Greizl Galario-Fernandez.
Key officials who graced the event included Councilor Rolando Centillas Jr. (Chair, Committee on Peace and Order), CLGOO Jan Eric Manasan (DILG Valencia City), Ronaldo Bayaon (OIC, NCIP Provincial Office), PCOL Jovit Culaway (Provincial Director, Bukidnon PPO), COL Christopher Diaz (Acting Brigade Commander, 1003rd Brigade), MGEN Allan Hambala (10th Infantry Division), and Liga ng mga Barangay President Louie John Naiz.
With the declaration of an insurgency-free status, Valencia City is set to further strengthen its peace and order initiatives and focus on programs that promote sustainable development, inclusive growth, and community resilience.