Kibawe, Bukidnon – November 26, 2024 – The Municipality of Kibawe in Bukidnon has been formally declared an insurgency-free municipality, marking a significant milestone in peace and security efforts in the region. The declaration ceremony took place at the Kibawe Function Hall and was attended by key representatives from various government agencies and stakeholders.
The declaration was made official through Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) and Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) Resolution No. 8-Series of 2024, stating that Kibawe is now generally unaffected by communist insurgency. The resolution highlights the municipality’s strengthened internal security mechanisms and the collaborative efforts of local government units (LGUs), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and other peace and development partners.
PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10, was represented by PCOL Jovit Lontac Culaway, Provincial Director of Bukidnon Police Provincial Office, at the event. Also present were PLTCOL Alfredo G. Ortiz Jr., Force Commander of Bukidnon 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, and PCPT Leonila R. Vicente, Officer-in-Charge of Kibawe Municipal Police Station.
Local government officials and dignitaries, including Hon. Rogelio Neil P. Roque, Governor of Bukidnon (represented by Kibawe Mayor Hon. Reynaldo S. Ang Rabanes), Vice-Mayor Hon. Raymundo A. Batao Jr., and DILG Provincial Director Rhona Pedraza Abadilla (represented by MLGOO Joaniliza S. Lalaan), expressed their commitment to sustaining peace and order in the municipality. Military leaders such as LTC Gilbert F. Gomez of the 48th Infantry Battalion and BGEN Marion T. Angcao of the 1003rd Brigade of the Philippine Army also played instrumental roles in the initiative.
The declaration underscores the importance of unity and collaboration among government agencies, Indigenous Cultural Communities, and other peace-building stakeholders. It reflects the combined efforts of the PNP, AFP, LGUs, and other organizations working together to address insurgency and promote sustainable peace and development in Bukidnon.
Hon. Reynaldo S. Ang Rabanes, Kibawe’s municipal mayor, emphasized the role of inclusive governance in achieving this milestone. “This achievement is a testament to our collective determination to bring lasting peace to Kibawe and ensure the safety and well-being of our constituents,” he said.
With Kibawe’s insurgency-free status, local leaders and stakeholders expressed optimism about increased opportunities for development and investment in the area, paving the way for a brighter future for its residents.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to maintain Kibawe’s peace and security and to serve as a model for other municipalities striving for similar achievements.