The town has 32 villages
TACLOBAN CITY – Eleven of the 32 barangays in Palapag, Northern Samar have been declared under stable internal peace and security condition (SIPSC), marking a significant step toward sustained peace in the area.
The declaration, made by the local government unit (LGU) of Palapag in collaboration with the 74th Infantry Battalion(IB), signifies that these villages are now free from insurgency and have achieved a stable security environment.
The SIPSC-declared barangays include Laniwan, Tinampo, Mapno, Paysud, Talolora, Sinilaran, Binay, Pangpang, Monbon, Natawo, and Campedico.
Local officials and security forces lauded this milestone, recognizing it as a key achievement in the government’s continuing efforts to establish lasting peace and stability in Northern Samar and the Eastern Visayas region.
The declaration ceremony was attended by municipal officials, including Mayor Florence Batula, Vice Mayor Melvic Chy, and Councilor Ricardo Batula who chair of the town council’s committee on public order and safety.
Also present were Rosalinda Jarito, municipal local government operations officer (MLGOO); PCapt Liborio Luces Jr., town police chief; Capt. Jamm de Francia, 122nd Special Action Company (SAC)/Special Action Force (SAF) Commanding Officer; and key personnel from the 74th Infantry Battalion.
A former New People’s Army (NPA) member, alias “Apoy”, also shared his experiences as an insurgent, highlighting the importance of government initiatives like SIPSC in transforming communities and ensuring security.
He urged community members to support peacebuilding efforts, emphasizing the critical role of collaboration in promoting sustainable development and long-term stability.
The 74th IB and LGU Palapag reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with community leaders and stakeholders to ensure the continued success of SIPSC initiatives.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)