The municipality of Loreto in Agusan del Sur has been declared stable, marking the end of decades of New People's Army influence. This declaration signals a significant shift in local security dynamics.
The announcement was led by Mayor Alvin A. Otaza and Army 10th Infantry Division Commander Major General Alvin V. Luzon after the surrender of 349 NPA members from Loreto and nearby areas over the past six years. Backchannel negotiations involving local officials, the military, and police facilitated the disarmament.
Authorities also reported that more than 20 NPA fighters were killed in separate military operations during the same period. This outcome followed sustained efforts to negotiate and dismantle insurgent presence.
Major General Luzon emphasized that the declaration is not the end of the peacekeeping mission. He urged local officials, police, and the military to collaborate to preserve the town’s peace dividend.
The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of a marker at the municipal government center. The marker symbolizes the community's commitment to maintaining peace.
