'Military claim significant successes vs communist insurgents in Northern provinces’

BAGUIO CITY (January 1, 2025) -- Government troopers stationed in Northern Philippines said it made significant strides versus communist guerillas last year and sees more in the coming years ahead.

Northern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Fernyl G. Buca said, in partnership with local governments and communities, “(we) have brought lasting peace and security” citing the whole of Ilocos Region, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and parts of Isabela—including Echague, Jones, San Guillermo, Maconacon, Palanan, and Divilacan, all in Cagayan Valley region, now “in a state of internal peace and security (SIPS).” 

The island town of Palanan (Isabela) has been free of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) for over a year, the military commander added.

While in Central Luzon, Aurora, Bataan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Bulacan, and Zambales have been declared SIPS areas, Buca further claimed.

Benguet and Ifugao have been declared insurgency-free in the highland Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), the Nolcom chief further noted.

“These accomplishments reflect the effectiveness of our whole-of-nation approach to ending local communist armed conflict,” Buca cited, while reaffirming their “resolve to end the decades-long insurgency that has hindered progress in our nation.”

Nolcom attributed these successes through focused military operations and stakeholder collaboration. 

Buca reiterated his call to the remaining members of the CPP-NPA “to abandon the armed struggle and reintegrate into society,” while promising government troops, along with other government agencies, “stand ready to assist through reintegration programs aimed at fostering hope and inclusivity, helping former rebels rebuild their lives and contribute to peaceful, progressive communities”.

While Nolcom vowed its “unwavering commitment (in) safeguarding our people from any attempts to disrupt the peace.” Together, let us continue working towards a future free from fear and violence, a future where every Filipino can thrive in safety and security, feeling secure and protected, Buca stressed.