ORMOC CITY – The municipalities of Sulat and San Julian in Eastern Samar have declared a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) on June 11 marking a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability.
The municipalities were previously cleared of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) influence in 2022 and have since achieved a conflict-manageable status.
The highlights of the event included the signing of Memorandums of Agreement (MOA) and Pledges of Commitment, alongside the simultaneous release of white doves, symbolizing peace and new beginnings.
Both Mayors expressed their gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to achieving SIPSC in their municipalities. They emphasized that this milestone paves the way for further progress and a better quality of life for their constituents. The Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reaffirmed their strong support and commitment to sustaining the stable peace and security in Sulat and San Julian.
Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir, commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, praised the municipalities for their dedication to maintaining a secure environment. Vestuir highlighted the collaboration and efforts of the local government units and their communities in achieving SIPSC.
“With our declaration of Sulat and San Julian as Stable Internal Peace and Security Conditions, we have delivered a strong message that we are united in our quest to end the local communist armed conflict and in maintaining a peaceful and secure environment for the peace-loving people of Sulat and San Julian,” Vestuir said.
The declaration ceremony was attended by key local officials, including Mayor Javier E. Zacate, chairperson of the Municipal Task Force-ELCAC in Sulat, and Mayor Dennis P. Estaron, chairperson of MTF-ELCAC in San Julian. Other notable attendees included Vice Governor Maria Caridad S. Goteesan of Eastern Samar, and Board Members Philip Evardone and Nesty Cablao of Eastern Samar.
Also present were military and police officials such as Colonel Rico O. Amaro, deputy brigade commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade; Lieutenant Colonel Joseph D. Bugaoan, acting commanding officer of the 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion; and Police Lieutenant Colonel Alex T. Robin, deputy provincial director for operations of the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office representing Police Colonel Jose Manuel C. Payos, ESPPO provincial director. (802nd Infantry Brigade/8ID)
