San Fernando Celebrates 1stt Anniversary as Insurgency-Free

SAN FERNANDO, Bukidnon — The Municipality of San Fernando proudly commemorated its first anniversary as an insurgency-free area during a ceremonial event held at the Municipal Gymnasium on May 28, 2025.

San Fernando was also recognized as the first municipality in Bukidnon to be officially declared insurgency-free in 2024 and has now become the first town to celebrate this anniversary.

It is worth noting that before its official declaration last year, San Fernando faced numerous challenges and skepticism regarding its ability to achieve lasting peace. However, through close coordination and steadfast support from the local government unit under the leadership of Mayor Rogelio C. Yeke, along with Brigadier General Marion T. Angcao, Commander of the 1003rd Infantry (Raptor) Brigade, the municipality succeeded in preventing the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) from regaining their lost mass base in the area, resulting in zero NPA activities for more than a year.

Angcao stated that the municipality’s success is attributed to the effective implementation of the Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS) strategy, which actively involves local leaders and community members in opposing insurgency efforts, as well as massive awareness campaigns, community outreach programs, the Mobile Community Support Sustainment Program (MCSSP), and the continuous government projects that have paved the way for numerous economic developments.

In his message, Yeke expressed gratitude to the Philippine Army, specifically the 1003rd Infantry Brigade and the 89th Infantry Battalion, for their dedication and perseverance in keeping the municipality free from the influence of the CTG.

“This milestone proves that unity and good governance can overcome even the most daunting challenges,” the mayor saif.

The anniversary, themed “One Year of Sustainable Peace through Unity and Good Governance,” also highlighted the role of the Indigenous Peoples and former rebels who contributed to maintaining peace in the area. PR