LUCENA CITY, Quezon — CALABARZON, the country’s leading industrial and manufacturing corridor outside Metro Manila, was formally declared insurgency-free for 2026, a development government officials said could further strengthen investor confidence and accelerate economic growth across the region.
The declaration was made during the awarding of the Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) Seal and the renewal of the SIPS Commitment by the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon at the Quezon Convention Center on Thursday.
The ceremony, held in conjunction with the 128th Philippine Independence Day celebration, was led by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Quezon Governor Dr. Helen Tan, chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-CALABARZON.
Officials described the declaration as a significant milestone for the region, which hosts major industrial estates, export-oriented manufacturing firms, logistics hubs, tourism destinations, and strategic infrastructure projects.
Governor Tan said the recognition reflects years of coordinated efforts among national government agencies, local government units, security forces, and community stakeholders to address security challenges and create an environment conducive to economic development.
“Peace and security are essential foundations for sustained investments, job creation, and inclusive growth,” she said.
Tan noted that prior to 2022, portions of Quezon Province and other areas in the region continued to face security concerns linked to insurgent activities. Through a “Whole-of-Society, Whole-of-Government, and Bottom-Up Approach,” authorities strengthened grassroots engagement and expanded development programs aimed at addressing the underlying causes of conflict.
The strategy, officials said, enabled local governments to improve public service delivery, enhance community participation, and strengthen peace and order mechanisms across the region.
A ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement for the Regional SIPS Declaration and the renewal of commitments among the five provinces highlighted the event, signaling continued collaboration in preserving the gains achieved in peace and security.
Business leaders have long cited peace and stability as key factors in attracting investments and supporting economic expansion. CALABARZON remains one of the country’s most important economic regions, accounting for a substantial share of manufacturing output, exports, and industrial investments.
Also present during the ceremony were NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Undersecretary Ernesto C. Torres Jr., Southern Luzon Command Commander Lt. Gen. Cerilo C. Balaoro Jr., Philippine Army Major General Ramon P. Zagala, and Police Regional Office 4A Director Brig. Gen. Hansel M. Marantan.
Officials expressed optimism that the region’s insurgency-free status would reinforce CALABARZON’s position as a preferred destination for investment, tourism, and business expansion while supporting long-term economic resilience and sustainable development.
