SEVENTY-SIX Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders from the Higaonon Tribe declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) persona non grata in a ceremony held on Jan. 12, 2025.
The 58th Infantry (Dimalulupig) Battalion under Lt. Col. Leoncito I. Grezula Jr., facilitated the ceremony in Sitio Lantad, Barangay Kibanban, Balingasag, a former stronghold of the NPA.
The activity was marked by powerful imagery, with IP leaders performing sacred rites to symbolize their rejection of the armed group and commitment to peace.
The leaders represented various areas, including Barangay Bantaawan in Gingoog City, Sitio Lantad, Barangay Kibanban, Barangay Bolahan, and Samay in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.
2Lt Maryknoll Rhea Cuis, the Civil-Military Operation officer of 58IB, said the event also featured sacred rites conducted by the IP leaders, symbolizing their united stand against the NPA. This was particularly significant given the historical context of the Balatukan Mountain Complex, where former NPA strongholds, such as Sitio Anaw in Barangay Bantaawan and Sitio Lantad in Kibanban, have been pivotal areas in past conflicts.
This initiative is part of the 58IB’s ongoing efforts, in collaboration with the Provincial Local Government of Misamis Oriental, to strengthen peace and stability in the region. The declaration comes in response to concerns regarding the involvement of certain Indigenous Peoples in Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) that have been linked to actions undermining local security and peace.
Governor Peter M. Unabia of Misamis Oriental expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of unity and cross-sector collaboration in ensuring the safety and development of the province. He also emphasized that the Indigenous Peoples of Misamis Oriental are crucial to the region’s cultural identity and the achievement of long-term peace and progress.
The declaration of the Higaonon Tribe leaders is seen as a significant step toward a violence-free community. It is expected that this move will inspire other local leaders to make similar declarations, further contributing to peacebuilding efforts across the province. The 58IB, alongside the local government, remains committed to enhancing security while fostering dialogue to promote harmonious coexistence among all stakeholders.
In a statement, Lt. Col. Leoncito I. Grezula Jr., commanding officer of 58IB, underscored the significance of the declaration made by the Higaonon Tribe leaders as a clear message of resistance against the destructive influence of the CPP-NPA in the region.
He emphasized that this bold step is a testament to the growing unity of the local communities in the fight for peace and security, and the 58IB will continue to support these efforts through strengthened partnerships with local governments and other stakeholders.
Lt. Col. Grezula reiterated the commitment of the 58IB to safeguarding the areas from insurgency and fostering an environment conducive to development and prosperity for all communities.
Photo courtesy of 4ID
