During the event, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region XI distributed immediate assistance and livelihood support to eight Friends Rescued (FRs), reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the successful reintegration of former rebels into mainstream society.
In his message, Luzon emphasized that Davao del Norte’s journey toward lasting peace reflects the unity and shared commitment of government agencies, local government units, security forces, indigenous communities, and peace advocates.
He recalled that the province once endured decades of armed conflict, particularly in the Pantaron Mountain Range in Talaingod, where communist terrorist groups allegedly exploited indigenous communities, recruited vulnerable individuals, and deprived many families of peace and opportunities.
“Today, our greatest task is to safeguard the peace we have won, strengthen the trust we have built, and ensure that the next generation will never have to experience the fears of the past. Let us continue moving forward with unity, determination, and a shared purpose so that Davao del Norte will always be a symbol of peace, progress, and resilience,” Luzon said.
The 10th Infantry Division reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace and security gains through continued collaboration with partner stakeholders and communities to prevent the resurgence of insurgency in the province.
The Agila Division also said its entire area of operations remains insurgency-free, with no active New People’s Army (NPA) units being monitored within its operational jurisdiction, reflecting what it described as the sustained success of the government’s Whole-of-Nation Approach in maintaining peace and stability.