Governor Oaminal strengthens peace efforts with the signing of Tripartite Agreement in Misamis Occidental

 

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, February 25, 2025 – In a key step towards ensuring lasting peace and order, Governor Henry S. Oaminal of Misamis Occidental, together with Vice Governor Rowena L. Gutierrez, Major General Gabriel C. Viray III, Commander of the 1st Infantry Division of the Philippine Army; Colonel Eddie M. Pilapil, Brigade Commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade; Police Brigadier General Jaygen C. De Guzman, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10; LTC Nelson Q. Boticario, Commanding Officer of the 10th Infantry Battalion; and Misamis Occidental Police Provincial Director, PCOL Rommel B. Magleo, led the ceremonial signing of the Tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Security, Peace, and Order, Unity, and Stability Efforts (SPOUSEs).

In his address, Governor Oaminal emphasized the importance of this agreement, not just as a formality, but as a demonstration of the province’s commitment to achieving sustainable peace, cooperation, and progress. He expressed deep gratitude to the men and women in uniform for their courage and dedication in maintaining peace and order despite the challenges they face.

"The signing of this agreement symbolizes the strength found in collaboration," Oaminal said. "It unites the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police, and the local government into a solid partnership working towards the safety and well-being of our communities, ensuring the gains we have made, especially in establishing an insurgency-free province."

The MOA aims to sustain peace efforts in Misamis Occidental, a province that has worked tirelessly to overcome the effects of conflict, criminal activity, and disorder. Through this partnership, the local government and law enforcement agencies will implement comprehensive security plans and initiatives aligned with the national vision of a "Bagong Filipino, Bagong Pilipinas."

Governor Oaminal highlighted the provincial government’s responsibility in the agreement’s implementation, including the establishment of a Provincial Security Operations Center (PSOC) to centralize security coordination. He also assured the public that the government would continue to invest in programs addressing the root causes of insurgency, inequality, and crime at the community level.

“True peace is not just the absence of conflict. It is built on justice, education, equal opportunities, and economic progress. This agreement is a foundation upon which we will create a more prosperous and inclusive society,” he emphasized.

The governor further assured the people of Misamis Occidental that, with this partnership in place, the province would continue to thrive as a safe, secure, and progressive environment for all its citizens. "Let us take this as a challenge to continue working together with determination and resolve. What we do today will define the future of Misamis Occidental," Oaminal concluded.

As the signing ceremony ended, the governor extended his deepest appreciation to the soldiers and police officers who are instrumental in securing the province. With the collaborative efforts now in place, the people of Misamis Occidental can look forward to a future marked by peace, unity, and growth. (SN/PGMO)