Written by: Suzette V. Alota

Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur – The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) IX convened its 1st Quarter Meeting for 2025 on March 4, 2025, at the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, PA, Kuta Major Cesar L. Sang-an, Upper Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. The meeting was attended by 34 out of 45 regular members, underscoring the strong commitment of regional stakeholders to maintaining peace and security in the region.

In her opening message, RPOC IX Chairperson, Hon. Dulce Ann K. Hofer, commended the region’s efforts in sustaining peace and order. She proudly highlighted that on December 5, 2024, the Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC) IX officially declared the Zamboanga Peninsula insurgency-free. This milestone is expected to accelerate economic growth, enhance social mobility, and promote inclusive progress through good governance and unity among peace-loving citizens.

The meeting featured key updates on the region’s peace and security situation, including:
✅ Updates on Peace and Order and Public Safety – presented by Police Regional Office IX
✅ Anti-Insurgency and Anti-Terrorism Status – reported by 1st Infantry Division
✅Status of Anti-Illegal Drug Operations – discussed by PDEA IX
✅ Progress in Crafting the Regional Security Sustainment Plan – presented by DILG IX

✅ Update from COMELEC IX in relation to peace and order of the elections

A significant highlight of the meeting was the recognition of outgoing officers Hon. Victor J. Yu, MGen Gabriel C. Viray, PBGen Bowenn Joey Masauding, and BGen Elmer Suderio. The council expressed its gratitude for their unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions to strengthening peace and order in the region.