CALAUAG, QUEZON — Buenavista, Quezon, became the epicenter of a historic event on May 20, 2023, as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Negosyo Center Lopez joined forces with local authorities to witness a significant milestone in the municipality’s pursuit of peace and progress.
The municipality of Buenavista, Quezon, held a significant event on May 20, 2023, at the Buenavista Municipal Covered Court. The highlight of the event was the withdrawal of support for the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). The event also focused on the recognition of people’s organizations and the declaration of stable internal peace and security (SIPS).
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and its programs, along with the Negosyo Center Lopez, actively participated in the event. The registration of participants took place, followed by legal discussions and the notarization of sworn statements.
The Municipal Vice Mayor of Buenavista, Quezon, Hon. Alvin Ray U. Rivera, delivered the welcome remarks and introduced the guests and participants. Background and a synopsis of community visitation were presented, along with testimonies.
A significant symbolic act took place during the event, which involved the mass burning of CPP-NPA-NDF flags, signifying the renouncement of support for the group. Participants then took an oath of peace allegiance, facilitated by CPT Arc F. Jayson (INF), PA, the CMO Officer of the 201st Brigade, 2ID, PA.
Various speakers addressed the audience, including Atty. Airha Kae V. Pornelda, the OIC/PAO-Catanauan, and Kharl Kris S. Piñol, the MLGOO of Buenavista, Quezon. LTC Joel R. Jonson INF (GSC) PA, the Commanding Officer of 851B, 2ID, PA, also delivered a message.
Former rebel Zena Punada shared her experience and journey, providing valuable insights to the participants. A photo opportunity was then conducted.
The event further recognized people’s organizations, with a message from stakeholders delivered by Ma. Isabel C. Hirang, the Business Counselor of DTI Negosyo Center Lopez, and Marites Nasaya, the Deputy Regional Director of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, IV-A. Hon. Reynaldo E. Rosilla Jr., the Municipal Mayor and MTF-ELCAC Chairperson of Buenavista, Quezon, also delivered a message.
Notable participants and stakeholders present included P/MAJ Rodelio M. Calawit PNP, the Force Commander of the 2nd QPMFC, QPPO, and PMAJ Raul D. Abenilla, the Chief Program and Evaluation Officer of the Area Police Command-Southern Luzon. PICOL Ledon D. Monte PNP, the Provincial Director of QPPO, and HON Reynaldo E. Rosilla Jr., the Municipal Mayor, and MTF-ELCAC Chairperson, also attended the event.
The program continued with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which was read aloud before the signing ceremony. A photo opportunity was conducted, and closing remarks were given by Rose Ann L. Rustira, the ADA-IV/DILG Senior Staff.
Among the MOU signatories was PCPT Christopher A. Reaño, the Chief of Police, Buenavista MPS.
The event aimed to establish a brief yet informative gathering that showcased the withdrawal of support for the CPP-NPA-NDF, the recognition of people’s organizations, and the declaration of stable internal peace and security in the Municipality of Buenavista, Quezon. ♦
Date of Release: 31 May 2023
