CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City — May 9, 2025 — In a powerful display of unity and resolve, the Municipality of Malitbog in Bukidnon province staged a major public rally on May 8, condemning the violence and recruitment tactics of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
Held at the People’s Park in Barangay Poblacion, the rally drew a diverse crowd from all sectors of the community, demonstrating broad-based support for peace and security in the region. Participants included municipal and barangay officials, Indigenous Peoples (IP) representatives, religious leaders, and military officers.
The event began with a unity march from Malitbog Central Elementary School to the Cultural Center, before culminating at the park. Highlights included the burning of CPP-NPA-NDF flags, the signing of a pledge of allegiance to the government, and the traditional Pamuhat Ritual led by Higaonon elders—underscoring both cultural heritage and the spiritual commitment to peace.
Among those present were Malitbog Mayor Hon. Gary Casiño, MPOC Vice Chairman Hon. Renerio A. Cabanes, Barangay Poblacion Captain Hon. Cesar D. Ragandang, IPMR Mr. Fredde Sumonda, Barangay Silo-o Captain Hon. Pepito E. Dominuez, Barangay San Luis Representative Hon. Ale Bandialan, Pastor Ernesto O. Awe, and 28th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Ronaldo J. Garcia-Ferrer.
In his speech, Mayor Casiño emphasized the importance of collective action in safeguarding the municipality against insurgency. “Malitbog’s unwavering commitment to peace is evident in this joint rally. The partnership between the local government and our IP communities sends a strong message—we reject violence and stand for peace.”
Lt. Col. Ferrer echoed the call for unity and condemned the CPP-NPA’s continued disruption of rural life. “No ideology can justify the targeting of civilians or the use of violence to instill fear. The people of Malitbog deserve to live without oppression. We stand with every community member in reaffirming our dedication to peace, law, and order.”
Organizers of the rally said the event serves not only as a firm stand against insurgent influence, but also as a milestone in promoting genuine peace and development in Bukidnon.