SOUTHERN LEYTE DECLARED INSURGENCY-FREE

May 06, 2026

Southern Leyte was officially declared under a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) on May 5, 2026, marking a major milestone in the government’s campaign to end local communist armed conflict.

The achievement was made possible through the sustained operations of the 93rd Infantry Battalion (93IB), 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, under the operational control of the 802nd Brigade, in close coordination with LGUs, national government agencies, the PNP, and other stakeholders.

From a total of nine (9) NPA members under Squad 2, Platoon 1, Island Committee Levox in 2025, the group has been reduced to zero through: six neutralized in focused military operations (June and September 2025) and three who voluntarily surrendered in December 2025.

Biliran Province was earlier declared insurgency-free in 2024, while Southern Leyte now follows suit. Meanwhile, Leyte Province remains under focused operations, with 15 remaining NPA members reported in its 5th District.

Key national and local officials, along with AFP and PNP leaders, joined the SIPSC declaration, reaffirming a whole-of-nation commitment to peace, development, and security.

“Peace is a journey, not just a destination.” The 93IB continues to strengthen its Integrated Territorial Defense System, combining security operations and community engagement as it transitions toward external defense readiness.