Iba, Zambales — The Province of Zambales was declared under the State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SSIPS) by the authorities and the Provincial Government during a ceremony held at the Balin Sambali of the Sports Complex in the Capitol Town of Iba, on 28 November 2025.

The said event also held the Ceremonial Signing of the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Committee (JPSCC) Operation Plan "Sanib Pwersa Zambales."

According to Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr., Resolution No. 4, Series of 2025, reaffirms the SSIPS in Zambales and strengthens the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Collaborative Efforts or the PACE program.

The 69th Infantry (COUGAR) Battalion, Philippine Army, spearheaded the Joint Attestation and Declaration of Support to Resolution No. 4, series of 2025.

Ebdane said that the event reinforces inter-agency collaboration in sustaining peace, stability, and development initiatives across the province, highlighting the unified commitment of national and local stakeholders to uphold SSIPS and advance the PACE Program.

Ebdane, Vice Governor Jaq Khonghun, and Board Member/ Sangguniang Panlalawigan Peace and Order Committee Chairman Enrico Matibag led the Provincial Government in signing the Joint Declaration.

This was followed by officials from the PNP, PCG, AFP, and DILG.

Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) Deputy Commander Brigadier General Cesar A. Molina expressed the command's full support to the Provincial Government's thrust for SSIPS.

Molina also reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to “sustain peace, protect communities, and ensure that security gains directly support Pangasinan’s continued development.”

PA's 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division (7ID) Assistant Division Commander BGen Mario D. Jacinto said that the event marked a significant milestone in the province’s continuing pursuit of lasting peace and development.

"It signifies that the threat of insurgency has been successfully reduced to a manageable level—paving the way for strengthened local governance, empowered communities, and sustained socio-economic growth for every Zambaleño," he said.