Posted on by May Sumalinog

POLA, Oriental Mindoro — February 2, 2026. The Municipality of Pola officially achieved the highest peace status following the Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Declaration of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) held at Pola Community College.
The activity was initiated by the 76th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division, Philippine Army (76IB, 2ID, PA), led by LTC ZACARIAS DEXTER P FOLLERO, INF (GSC) PA, Acting Battalion Commander. The declaration reflects sustained peace-building efforts through strong inter-agency collaboration and community support, with the Pola Municipal Police Station playing a key role.
The ceremony opened with the formal proceedings, including audio-visual presentations, the National Anthem, and welcome remarks by Hon. Leandro P. Panganiban Jr., Municipal Vice Mayor of Pola. The Sangguniang Bayan Resolution was read by Ms. Shiely D. Villanueva, while the MOU was read by Mr. Dennis V. De Castro, MLGOO of Pola. The ceremonial signing of the MOU and declaration of SIPS symbolized the shared commitment of government agencies, the security sector, and the community to preserve peace and stability. A special number from Pola Community College highlighted the involvement of the youth in peace advocacy.
The activity was attended by PCOL EDISON V REVITA, Provincial Director of ORMIN PPO, representing PBGEN JOVENCIO S BADUA Jr, Regional Director of PRO MIMAROPA; PD FREDERICK C GUMABOL, MPA, CESO V, Provincial Director of DILG Oriental Mindoro; PLTCOL EDWIN F GUTANG, Force Commander, RMFB 4B; PLTCOL ALDWIN R SANTOS, Acting Company Commander, 1st PMFC; PMAJ JEFFREY T BANGNGO, Acting Battalion Commander, 10th SAB, PNP SAF; PCPT BERNIE T ORTEGA, Platoon Leader, 3rd Platoon, PMFC; and PMAJ FLORANTE M SUGIAN II Chief of Police of Pola MPS.
In his message, LTC FOLLERO emphasized that the declaration is a continuing responsibility, stating, “SIPS is just the beginning; we must sustain and preserve the peace we have achieved.” Meanwhile, PD FREDERICK C GUMABOL underscored the role of the community, saying, “Ang kapayapaang tinatamasa natin ngayon ay bunga ng sama-samang pagkilos ng bawat isa. Ito ay dahil sa inyo. Patuloy nating labanan ang anumang uri ng karahasan, lalo na ang dulot ng CPP-NPA, upang mapanatili ang estado ng kapayapaan sa ating komunidad.” The ceremony concluded with the awarding of the SIPS Seal to the Municipality of Pola, formally recognizing its status as a peaceful and stable municipality. Throughout the activity, the Pola Municipal Police Station provided comprehensive security coverage, ensuring peace, order, and public safety during the event. The declaration of Pola as a SIPS municipality stands as a testament to effective collaboration, responsive governance, and the continued commitment of Pola MPS and its partners to sustain peace in the community.