THE peace and order situation in Mindanao has significantly improved, according to Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo of the Department of National Defense (DND).
Speaking yesterday (August 14) in Barangay Sta. Ana, Tagoloan town, Lorenzo announced that the communist insurgency in the region has largely been neutralized, with no active guerrilla fronts remaining.
“There are no longer any active guerrilla fronts of the (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front),” Lorenzo stated.
He acknowledged the existence of small resistant groups but assured that the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other security agencies have the situation under control.
Lorenzo also highlighted ongoing peace efforts with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the Bangsamoro region, emphasizing that the upcoming Barmm elections in 2025 will further strengthen the peace process.
He pointed out that both the MILF and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) are now seen as partners in peace and development.
“We have come a long way in our unity with the MILF and MNLF,” Lorenzo said, adding that the DND has directed the AFP to ensure security and safety during the 2025 Barmm midterm elections.
Lorenzo reported no recent incidents of terrorism or violent extremism nationwide, including in Mindanao.
He also pointed out that there have been no recorded kidnappings in the Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi areas over the past five years, noting that Sulu has even begun to develop its tourism industry.
Northern Mindanao, he added, is experiencing significant economic progress, while Davao has been officially declared insurgency-free.
These developments, according to Lorenzo, are clear evidence that the CPP-NPA is no longer active across the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao.
Lorenzo made these remarks during the groundbreaking ceremony for a bulk water treatment facility in Barangay Sta. Ana, a project led by Phividec Industrial Estate Administrator Joseph Donato Bernedo.
