DAVAO CITY — In celebration of Davao Oriental's achievement of an insurgency-free status on Tuesday, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Eastern Mindanao distributed sacks of rice to 495 "Friends Rescued" during the event at the Provincial Capitol in Mati City.

OPAPRU Eastern Mindanao director Atty. Elisa Evangelista-Lapiña said that the event symbolizes their commitment to assisting former rebels in their journey towards reintegration and providing them with the support they need to rebuild their lives.

To recall, members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council, through a resolution, unanimously declared Davao Oriental as insurgency-free and development-ready on 19 September 2023.

Lapiña said the "insurgency-free" celebration is a recognition of the hard-fought journey towards peace, stability and progress in Davao Oriental.

"We applaud the province for its resilience and dedication to achieving peace. OPAPRU Eastern Mindanao is proud to support this endeavor and stands ready to assist in any way possible to ensure lasting peace and prosperity," Lapiña said.

She reaffirmed the OPAPRU's commitment to Davao Oriental's journey toward lasting peace and development.

"OPAPRU recognizes the dedication of Davao Oriental in achieving and sustaining the gains of peace. We pledge to continue supporting the province in various ways, ensuring that the fruits of peace reach every community," Lapiña said.

She also emphasized the importance of holistic development in sustaining peace by working hand-in-hand with local leaders, stakeholders, and communities to build a more inclusive and peaceful future for Davao Oriental."

Meanwhile, Oliver Binancilan — OPAPRU's Project Development Officer V — said the 495 sacks of rice were distributed to various people's organizations with their leaders and members who also graced and took part in the Davao Oriental's celebration of being a province that is free from communist insurgents.