Gen. MacArthur, Kananga declared stable and peaceful; Eastern Visayas SIPSC tally climbs to 114

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
June 27, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – Two municipalities in Eastern Visayas that were once affected by insurgency have been formally declared under the Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC), marking a significant milestone in their transition toward lasting peace and development.

General MacArthur in Eastern Samar and Kananga in Leyte are now officially classified as stable, peaceful, and ready for sustained development following years of coordinated peace and security efforts by local government units, communities, security forces, and national government agencies.

For years, both municipalities faced challenges brought by insurgent influence, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities. These threats hampered the delivery of basic services, limited economic opportunities, and affected the daily lives of residents.

Through sustained military and law enforcement operations, improved local governance, infrastructure projects, livelihood support, social services, and active community participation, both municipalities were able to address the root causes of insurgency and restore public confidence in government.

General MacArthur Mayor Joel Baldo said the declaration was made possible through unity and cooperation among residents, local officials, and government agencies.

“Ini nga kamurayawan, pakusga pa naton an aton pagkaurusa ngan makiusa kita ha mga programa para ha seguridad ngan kauswagan. Hini nga deklarasyon in nahimugso hit aton pagkakaurusa, pagbibinurubligay han iba-ibang ahensiya han gobyerno, sugad han mga barangay officials han aton hinigugma nga bungto sugad liwat han aton mga municipal officials ug mga molopyo han mga kabarangayan,” Mayor Baldo said.

(Let us further strengthen the peace we have achieved by deepening our unity and continuing our support for programs that promote security and development. This declaration was made possible through our collective efforts, the cooperation of various government agencies, barangay and municipal officials, and every citizen of General MacArthur.)

Kananga Mayor Manuel Vicente Torres also vowed that the local government will continue strengthening programs that sustain peace and promote inclusive development.

“We shall strengthen programs that address the root causes of conflict, improve the delivery of basic services, create opportunities for livelihood and employment, and ensure that no sector of society is left behind. We likewise commit to maintaining strong partnerships with our security sector and development partners in observing peace, protecting our communities, and promoting the rule of law," Mayor Torres said.

The 8th Infantry Division emphasized that the SIPSC declaration is not the end of the peace and security effort, but the beginning of a continuing responsibility shared by government, security forces, and the people.

“Hindi lang po sa amin, mga sundalo, municipal at barangay officials ang may responsibilidad upang mapanatili ang ating pagiging Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition. Ang aking apela po sa lahat ng mamamayan ay pagtulong-tulungan nating mapreserba ito sa pamamagitan ng inyong feedback at pakikipagtulungan,” the Division said.

(It is not only us soldiers, municipal officials, and barangay officials who have the responsibility to maintain our Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition. My appeal to all citizens is for us to work together to preserve it through your feedback and cooperation.)

The Division stressed that timely information from residents remains vital in preventing the return of insurgent activity and in helping authorities respond to emerging security concerns before they escalate.

With the declaration of General MacArthur and Kananga, a total of 114 municipalities, cities, and provinces in Eastern Visayas are now classified under SIPSC.