Ilocos norte: Residents and investors in Ilocos Norte benefit from peace and business stability, as the military confirmed the province is still insurgency-free. 'This has been achieved through the help of the provincial government and the concerted efforts of all concerned stakeholders and local communities, not allowing insurgents to enter our province,' Lt. Colonel Luis Banoey Jr., commander of the Philippine Army's 77th Infantry Battalion, said in an interview on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, over the years, Ilocos Norte has remained among the most peaceful regions in the country, free from the cruelty and intimidation of the communist New People's Army. On Wednesday, Banoey reported to the Provincial Peace and Order Council on the status of Ilocos Norte as insurgency-free during a meeting at the Provincial Capitol.

Banoey mentioned that a resolution is being prepared for local authorities to formalize the declaration that the two cities, 21 municipalities, and 559 barangays of Ilocos Norte are under a state of stable internal peace and security. This initiative aligns with the Department of the Interior and Local Government Memorandum Circular No. 2018-211, which bans support to the NPA, and Executive Order 70, promoting a whole-of-nation approach to peace.

Ilocos Norte continues to offer livelihood and reintegration assistance to rebel surrenderers. In addition to financial support, the local government provides temporary shelter to former rebels. Police authorities also reach out to communities, particularly in remote areas, to advocate for peace and development and resist persuasion by terrorist groups.