QUEZON, Bukidnon — The municipality of Quezon was officially declared insurgency-free on December 19, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the government’s sustained peace and security campaign in Southern Mindanao.
With the latest declaration, Quezon joins nine other local government units in Southern Bukidnon—San Fernando, Kadingilan, Damulog, Kitaotao, Dangcagan, Kibawe, Don Carlos, Maramag, and Valencia City—now cleared of threats posed by Communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist groups. The development completes all ten local government units under the operational responsibility of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division of the Philippine Army as insurgency-free.
The achievement follows the dismantling of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) armed units and the earlier declaration of the entire Davao Region as insurgency-free on October 12, 2022. In line with these gains, the 10th Infantry Division was assigned an expanded area of responsibility in Southern Bukidnon on March 10, 2023.
According to the Philippine Army, peace gains in the clustered municipalities were the result of sustained and focused operations conducted by units of the 10ID, particularly the 48th Infantry Battalion, and later reinforced by the 56th and 89th Infantry Battalions, all operating under the supervision of the 1003rd Infantry “Raptor” Brigade. These efforts led to the dismantling of the Southern Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) “Peddler” and contributed to the dissolution of the Weakened Guerrilla Front (WGF) 57, paving the way for the insurgency-free declarations.
Following the clearing operations, the 10th Infantry Division shifted its focus to security consolidation, the eradication of remaining Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) influence in previously affected barangays, and support to local government units. These efforts include community engagement, quick impact projects, and the delivery of basic services in coordination with national agencies and local stakeholders.
Major General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, said the declaration reflects the effectiveness of sustained military operations and strong collaboration among government partners.
“These gains were achieved through continuous operations and close cooperation with local governments and partner agencies. Our focus now is to sustain peace and prevent the return of armed groups,” Luzon said.
The 10ID reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security in Southern Bukidnon while supporting long-term development and stability, emphasizing that lasting peace is anchored not only on security efforts but also on inclusive governance and community-driven development.