Sulu declared ‘stable’ in peace, security

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — Following decades of armed conflict and security challenges, the Province of Sulu was officially declared having a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) during a ceremony at the provincial gymnasium on Thursday, Sept. 24.

The declaration was formalized through Provincial Peace and Order Council Resolution No. 3, Series of 2026, which affirmed that insurgent formations in the province have been dismantled and degraded to a non-threat level.

Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan II led the declaration, witnessed by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., former Interior Secretary Rafael Alunan III, Vice Gov. Abdusakur Tan, Maj. Gen. Leonardo Peña, Commander of the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division (11ID) and Joint Task Force (JTF) Orion, along with local executives and security officials.

Article continues after this advertisement

During the event, Peña and Police Col. Jeff Briones Uy led military and police personnel in presenting a collection of surrendered firearms, highlighting ongoing government campaigns against the proliferation of loose weapons in the region.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

Tan recalled the province’s long struggle with terrorism, kidnappings, and pervasive instability, stressing that civil-military cooperation and community participation are essential to prevent a return to past conditions.

“The people themselves remain indispensable partners in maintaining security and stability,” Tan said, urging local communities to protect the security gains achieved.

Teodoro similarly emphasized the role of civilian institutions in sustaining long-term peace, pointing to education, family values, and the active involvement of religious and local leaders as key pillars for future generations.

The ceremony concluded with national and local officials signing a Pledge of Commitment, followed by the symbolic release of doves and balloons.

According to the 11ID, units under JTF Orion will continue to coordinate with local government units, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to maintain stability and support socio-economic development across the province. /das