BACOLOD City – Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson affirmed the Philippine Army’s ongoing presence in Negros Occidental, countering rumors of a reduction due to the dismantlement of the New People’s Army (NPA) guerrilla fronts in the province.
He issued this clarification amid speculations of a redeployment of battalions to address weakened NPA factions on Panay Island.
Such reports were refuted by the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Army, which confirmed sufficient forces are already stationed in Panay to tackle the remaining communist insurgents.
The recommendation by the 3ID to designate Negros as “under a state of stable internal peace and security” (SIPS) followed the successful disbandment of all NPA guerrilla units affiliated with the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KR-NCBS) within the region.
Lacson, who also serves as the chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council, announced a forthcoming meeting on March 13 to deliberate on the potential SIPS status for Negros, aiming for a consensus as a collegial body.
He praised the Philippine Army’s efforts and highlighted the local government’s role in maintaining these achievements by supporting areas previously marred by conflict.
He posited that SIPS status for Negros could enhance the island’s attractiveness to investors, thereby creating more employment and opportunities for the local population.
The 3ID has stressed that declaring Negros Island under SIPS would bolster local government units and agencies, enabling them to fulfill their duties more effectively in the quest for a lasting peace. This initiative underscores the commitment to stabilizing the region and promoting socio-economic development. (Watchmen Daily Journal)/PN
