The Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry “Agila” Division joined Davao del Norte officials in marking the fourth anniversary of the province’s declaration as insurgency-free, highlighting continuing efforts to prevent the return of communist insurgency in the area.
The commemoration was held on July 3, 2026, at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Tagum City.
Major General Alvin Luzon joined Governor Edwin Jubahib, national and local officials, security sector leaders, indigenous peoples’ representatives, peace advocates, and partner stakeholders during the event.
The activity reaffirmed the province’s commitment to sustaining peace, security, and development under the government’s Whole-of-Nation Approach.
Davao del Norte was declared insurgency-free in 2022 after government agencies, local government units, security forces, partner stakeholders, and communities worked to dismantle the influence of communist terrorist groups in the province.
As part of the anniversary program, the Department of the Interior and Local Government Region XI distributed Immediate Assistance and Livelihood Support to eight Friends Rescued, or former rebels, to help them reintegrate into mainstream society.
In his message, Luzon said Davao del Norte’s peace gains were built through the cooperation of government agencies, local officials, security forces, indigenous communities, and peace advocates.
He recalled that the province had endured decades of armed conflict, especially in the Pantaron Mountain Range in Talaingod, where communist terrorist groups allegedly exploited indigenous communities, recruited vulnerable individuals, and deprived families of peace and opportunities.
“Today, our greatest task is to safeguard the peace we have won, strengthen the trust we have built, and ensure that the next generation will never have to experience the fears of the past. Let us continue moving forward with unity, determination, and a shared purpose so that Davao del Norte will always be a symbol of peace, progress, and resilience,” Luzon said.
The 10th Infantry Division said it will continue working with partner stakeholders and communities to preserve the province’s peace gains and prevent the resurgence of insurgency.
The Agila Division also said its entire area of operation remains insurgency-free, with no active New People’s Army units monitored across its operational jurisdiction.