Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon | Photos by: Aladin P. Abutazil & Jandawyne Francis M. Caluya

Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur – The Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC) IX remains steadfast in its efforts to sustain peace and development in the region. Since the declaration of Zamboanga Peninsula as insurgency-free in December 2024, the Philippine Army has reported zero threats of communist group reorganization or resurgence in the area.

During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on March 18, 2025, DILG IX Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil, CESO III, emphasized the importance of sustaining the gains of the ELCAC program in fostering lasting peace and development, particularly in conflict-affected communities. RD Abutazil reiterated the Department’s continuous monitoring of programs and projects to ensure the effective delivery of government services.

As part of these initiatives, 29 former insurgency-affected barangays in the region are set to receive development projects amounting to ₱5 million each under the unprogrammed appropriations of the Department. These projects aim to enhance community resilience and further reinforce the government’s commitment to inclusive progress. 

DILG IX remains committed to strengthening peace-building efforts and ensuring that communities reap the full benefits of sustained development in Zamboanga Peninsula.