CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental — Leaders of the Indigenous Peoples (IP) from the Higaonon Tribe have formally withdrawn their support for the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and declared the group as persona non grata.

The 58th Infantry (Dimalulupig) Battalion, under the leadership of Lt. Col. Leoncito Grezula Jr., facilitated the landmark declaration event held on Saturday, 12 January, in Sitio Lantad, Barangay Kibanban, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.

A total of 76 IP leaders from various areas, including Barangay Bantaawan in Gingoog City, Sitio Lantad, Barangay Kibanban, Barangay Bolahan, and Samay in Balingasag, joined the activity.

The Higaonon Tribe leaders’ declaration is seen as a significant step toward fostering a violence-free community. The military expressed hope that this move will inspire other local leaders to follow suit, contributing further to peacebuilding efforts across the province.

Sacred rites conducted by the IP leaders during the event symbolized their united stand against the NPA, adding cultural and spiritual significance to the occasion.

The declaration is particularly notable given the historical context of the Balatukan Mountain Complex. Former NPA strongholds such as Sitio Anaw in Barangay Bantaawan and Sitio Lantad in Barangay Kibanban have been pivotal in past conflicts.

This initiative forms part of the 58IB’s ongoing efforts, in collaboration with the Provincial Local Government of Misamis Oriental, to strengthen peace and stability in the region.

The move also addresses concerns regarding certain Indigenous Peoples’ alleged involvement with Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs), which have been linked to actions undermining local peace and security.

Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of unity and cross-sector collaboration in ensuring the safety and development of the province. He also highlighted the critical role Indigenous Peoples play in preserving the region’s cultural identity and achieving long-term peace and progress.

Lt. Col. Leoncito Grezula Jr., commanding officer of the 58IB, stressed the significance of the Higaonon Tribe leaders’ declaration as a clear message of resistance against the “destructive influence” of the CPP-NPA in the region.

“This bold step is a testament to the growing unity of local communities in the fight for peace and security,” he said, adding that the 58IB will continue to support these efforts through strengthened partnerships with local governments and other stakeholders.

Lt. Col. Grezula reiterated the 58IB’s commitment to safeguarding the region from insurgency and fostering an environment conducive to development and prosperity for all communities.