Prosperidad: The province of Agusan del Sur has been declared under Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status by the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC). This announcement was made during a recent PPOC meeting in Prosperidad town, attended by key regional leaders including Governor Santiago Cane Jr., and officials from the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other governmental bodies.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Army's 401st Infantry Brigade (401Bde) attributed the achievement of SIPS status to the successful dismantling of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) of the communist New People's Army. The downfall of NEMRC is credited to the persistent efforts of the Army, the PNP, and other security forces within the province.
Col. Glenn Joy U. Aynera, acting commander of 401Bde, stated that this declaration marks a significant shift towards an insurgency-free environment in Agusan del Sur, which is expected to foster economic growth, attract investment, and enhance public services for residents. He emphasized that this accomplishment is a testament to the sacrifices and commitment of Army personnel, including those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of peace, as well as the crucial support from local government units, Indigenous Peoples, and communities throughout the province.
In a recent operation, the 401Bde's 36th Infantry Battalion and 3rd Special Forces Battalion, in collaboration with the PNP's 1st Special Action Battalion, facilitated the surrender of the last members of NEMRC in Barangay Sibahay, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur. The surrender included the handing over of weapons such as an RPK light machine gun, three M16A1 rifles, one M203 grenade launcher, one M4 Bushmaster rifle, and various ammunition, alongside subversive documents.
Maj. Gen. Marion Angcao, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, highlighted the effectiveness of the whole-of-nation approach in achieving peace and development. He praised the collaborative efforts of soldiers, local government leaders, partner agencies, and citizens devoted to reaching the SIPS status.
