Philippine Army Advocates for Peace and Security Declaration in Negros to Spur Development

Negros — The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) has initiated a movement for the proclamation of a state of stable internal peace and security (SIPS) across local government units (LGUs) in Negros, following the successful dismantlement of communist guerrilla fronts on the island. This declaration is seen as a pivotal step towards attracting investment, creating jobs, and unlocking new opportunities for the region’s populace.

According to Philippines News Agency, the commander of 3ID, the requisite conditions for a SIPS declaration have been satisfactorily met in Negros Island, enabling local chief executives to formalize the status. “The conditions have been met in Negros Island and the SIPS can now be formally declared by our concerned local chief executives,” Sison articulated in a statement released on Wednesday.

Lt. Col. J-Jay Javines, the public affairs chief of 3ID, detailed the collaborative efforts underway between the Army, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and LGUs to secure SIPS status for their respective jurisdictions. This initiative aims to bolster peace and security declarations across both provinces of Negros. The process at the LGU level involves a recommendation from the peace and order council, followed by the adoption of a joint resolution by the mayor, PNP, and the Philippine Army to officially declare SIPS in the area.

Negros Island hosts six battalions, namely the 79th, 62nd, 94th, 15th, 11th, and 47th Infantry Battalions, operating under the guidance of the 302nd and 303rd Infantry Brigades. The 94th Infantry Battalion achieved a significant milestone by dismantling the Central Negros 2 guerrilla front of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) last year, marking the culmination of operations against several other fronts on the island.

Despite these achievements, Javines underscored the ongoing military operations aimed at preventing the CPP-NPA from regaining lost territories and expanding its ranks. The concerted efforts of the 3ID and its partners underscore a commitment to maintaining peace and fostering economic growth in Negros.