In her speech, the newly elected Governor Yvonne Cagas emphasized that this year’s Araw ng Davao del Sur is a symbol of peace, collaboration, and development.
She further encouraged her fellow Davsuranons to continue to work hand-in-hand to sustain a peaceful and progressive Davao del Sur.
Former Governor Marc Cagas lV, during the turnover last June 30, attributed this declaration through the teamwork and collaboration of the local government agencies, military, police, and the communities as well.
Lieutenant Colonel Ezra Balagtey, the commander of Philippine Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion based in Makilala, North Cotabato said Davao del Sur was declared insurgency free since fourth quarter of 2021 through a Resolution passed by the Provincial Peace and Order Council of (PPOC) last May 25, 2022.
This came after the dismantling of New People’s Army (NPA) formations, collapse of mass bases, and the emplacement of mechanisms and programs to prevent insurgency in the province.
Governor Yvonne Cagas.Photo from 39th IB