28/04/2026
DECLARATION OF STABLE INTERNAL PEACE AND SECURITY CONDITION IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF ARTECHE, EASTERN SAMAR
DOLORES, EASTERN SAMAR – The 52nd Infantry (Agila) Battalion, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Arteche, Eastern Samar, formally declared the municipality under a Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) condition through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The declaration ceremony was held at the Municipal Covered Court as part of the highlights of Arteche’s 75th Town Anniversary on April 27, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the municipality’s pursuit of lasting peace, security, and sustainable development.
This momentous event was attended by Lieutenant Colonel Sandy U. Sereño PA, Commanding Officer of the 52nd Infantry (Agila) Battalion, alongside the Local Government Unit of Arteche, Eastern Samar, led by Hon. Roland “Boie” M. Evardone, Acting Municipal Mayor/Vice Mayor. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was witnessed by Major General Peter B. Burgonio PA, Commander of the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division; Brigadier General Arlino L. Sendaydiego PA, Commander of the 801st Infantry (Bantay at Gabay) Brigade, 8ID, PA; Police Colonel Ernesto Macasil, Provincial Director of the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office (ESPPO); Engr. Jesus Jeremy D. Bagares, Officer-in-Charge Provincial Director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Eastern Samar; Police Captain Louie P. Gorgonio, Officer-in-Charge Chief of Police of Arteche Municipal Police Station; members of the Sangguniang Bayan; and barangay officials from the municipality. It further conveys that the intent of the Memorandum of Understanding is to strengthen public confidence not only among the residents of Arteche, Eastern Samar, but also across the province and the wider region, thereby fostering an environment conducive to sustained socio-economic, political, and cultural development.
The Municipality of Arteche satisfied the established parameters for the conferment of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status, having met key indicators such as the absence of CTG-initiated atrocities in the Municipality for a continuous period of at least one year. This milestone was further reinforced by the municipality’s active participation in local peace-building initiatives, the surrender and formal disengagement of former rebels and mass supporters and the demonstrated commitment of stakeholders through sustained inter-agency and multi-sectoral collaboration.
Acting Mayor Roland “Boie” M. Evardone expressed his gratitude following the declaration of the Municipality of Arteche under a Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) condition. He further urged his constituents to continue demonstrating cooperation, perseverance, and unity in sustaining peace, emphasizing that these collective efforts are vital in driving the municipality toward continued progress and development.
Major General Peter B. Burgonio PA, conveyed his sincere appreciation and extends its profound gratitude to the Local Government Unit of Arteche under the leadership of Acting Municipal Mayor Hon. Roland “Boie” M. Evardone, while also acknowledging the members of the Sangguniang Bayan, department heads, and the barangay council for their active participation and steadfast support, which proved instrumental in attaining this significant milestone; he further commended the people of Arteche for embracing peace over conflict, progress over violence and unity over division, emphasizing that this reflects their strong support, willingness, and commitment to actively participate in government initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and overall quality of life of every citizen.
