Santa Maria becomes 2nd Laguna municipality declared insurgency-free
CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay - In a remarkable development, Sta. Maria became the second municipality in Laguna to be declared an area with Stable Internal Peace and Security following the ceremonial signing of documents on Monday, July 31.
The said ceremony saw the signing of a memorandum of agreement of key personalities including Santa Maria Mayor Hon. Atty. Ma. Rochelle V. Carolino, Vice Mayor Hon. Atty. Norlito C. Briones, 2nd Infantry "Jungle Fighter" Division Commander Maj. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong, 202nd Infantry "Unifier" Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Cerilo C. Balaoro Jr., 1st Infantry "Always First" Battalion Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Danilo V. Escandor, together with representatives of partner government agencies.
During the ceremony, the government also presented four former Milisyang bayan members and one Sangay ng Partido sa lokalidad frpm the barangays of Laurel and J. Santiago as well as a caliber 38 revolver with 5 rounds of ammunition and one hand grenade yielded by the rebel surrenderers.
In a statement, Maj. Gen. Capulong attributed this achievement to the collective efforts of the security forces, government agencies, and the resilient citizens who have paved the way for lasting peace in the municipality. He added the event not only celebrated the spirit of unity and cooperation but also inspired the military to continue striving for a peaceful and progressive province of Laguna.