ILOILO – The Iloilo provincial government has moved to strengthen its local defense and development framework with the issuance of Executive Order (EO) No. 111, creating the Provincial Community Defense Action — a coordinated mechanism designed to fortify peace, security, and resilience across the province.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. signed the order on October 8, institutionalizing the initiative dubbed “4K for MoRProGRes” (Kapayapaan, Kaayusan, at Katatagan Tungo sa Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas), aligned with the province’s overarching development vision under the “Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Iloilo” (MoRProGRes) program.
“This initiative strengthens the province’s ability to respond to crises and safeguard communities from both internal and external threats,” the EO stated. It highlights that Iloilo’s progress must rest on a foundation of peace, order, and preparedness — key elements of sustainable growth.
Under the program, the province will implement coordinated actions against natural and manmade disasters, social unrest, criminality, and insurgency, while also preparing for potential external dangers such as foreign invasion or violations of national sovereignty.
The EO also underscores the importance of an integrated approach through the enforcement of existing laws and the adoption of national frameworks, including the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160), the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 (RA 10121), and the Climate Change Act of 2009 (RA 9729). Provincial ordinances on public health and environmental protection, such as the Rabies Control and Dengue Prevention ordinances, are also incorporated.
The initiative forms part of the province’s Social Justice Agenda, which emphasizes equitable access to opportunities and resources through good governance and sustainable development. Key objectives include boosting investments and jobs, ensuring food security, improving health and social services, protecting natural resources, and maintaining public order.
Grounded in Section 16 of RA 7160, the order empowers local government units to “take necessary actions for effective governance and community welfare,” recognizing the growing need for a collective defense and resilience mechanism.
The Iloilo Provincial Community Defense Action thus positions the province to proactively manage risks, strengthen security systems, and protect its people amid climate, political, and social challenges.
With this measure, the Defensor administration aims to build a safer, more responsive, and self-reliant Iloilo — one capable of defending its progress while ensuring inclusive development for all Ilonggos./PN
