DAVAO CITY (PIA) — The sustained insurgency-free status of the Davao Region is attributed to the collaborative efforts of Peace and Order Councils and various government agencies.
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Director Abdullah V. Matalam emphasized the importance of effective governance and continuous commitment from national and local agencies in ensuring peace in the region.
He reiterated that the Davao Region has been insurgency-free since 2020, attributing this achievement to the coordinated efforts of Peace and Order Councils at the regional, provincial, municipal and barangay levels.
“Our objective is to build and sustain a just, lasting and sustainable peace in the Davao Region,” Matalam said.
He acknowledged the vital role played by the national government, local government units (LGUs) and grassroots stakeholders in maintaining security and stability.
While the region remains free from insurgency, Matalam noted that challenges persist in certain communities. He stressed the importance of strengthening efforts to counter terrorist groups and further enhance security measures.
“We have to strengthen our efforts and collaboration within the framework of good governance and positive peace,” Matalam said.
Matalam also highlighted the National Action Plan-Unified Programs for Development (NAP UPD), a government initiative under the Marcos administration aimed at sustaining peace and assisting “friends rescued” (FRs) who wish to reintegrate into lawful society. He confirmed that a meeting was recently held to discuss the program’s implementation, ensuring continued support for FRs and further consolidating peace efforts in the region. (PIA/RLC)