Puerto Princesa, Palawan
September 1, 2023

“This milestone that we celebrate today epitomizes the commitment that you have put to end the decades-long insurgency in the area through the provision of national reintegration programs for former rebels and promotion of the island’s peace and security,” remarked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in recognizing the collaborative efforts of all concerned agencies for successfully achieving the ‘insurgency-free’ status for Palawan.

Earlier, the President officially declared Palawan Island and the City of Puerto Princesa as insurgency-free, an opportune time as the nation celebrates National Peace Consciousness Month this September.

Noting that the whole-of-nation approach is a vital element towards achieving an insurgency-free status, he further urged all stakeholders to sustain the gains of peace by ensuring the effective delivery of government services to communities.

“That is the first thing that we need to attend to. Kailangan maramdaman ng bawat Pilipino na nandito hindi lamang ang pamahalaan kung hindi pati na ang local communities, pati na ang local government, pati na ang mga pulis, pati na ang mga sundalo, pati na ang lahat ng bahagi ng ating lipunan ay nandiyan upang suportahan at pagandahin ang kanilang buhay,” he said.

“Kapag natupad natin ‘yan, natupad natin ‘yang pangako na ‘yan ay makikita natin na magiging mas madali ang usapan na papunta sa kapayapaan,” the Chief Executive continued.

He also underscored the importance of the stakeholders’ coordination with the local government in order to facilitate the former rebels’ reintegration to society.

“That is why it is gratifying to see because we have seen the success of this principle, of this concept all around the country… Ipagpatuloy ninyo ang inyong nasimula at nang sa gano’n ay maging mas mapayapa ang Pilipinas at maging mas mapayapa ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” President Marcos Jr. concluded his message.

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