Pampanga Officials Unite to Reaffirm State of Stable Internal Peace and Security
Provincial government officials in Pampanga came together on Friday to sign a joint declaration, formally reaffirming the State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SSIPS) within the province. This significant event was led by Governor Lilia Pineda, who underscored the commitment to maintaining peace and order despite ongoing economic and security challenges.
Governor Pineda Highlights Collective Efforts and Framework Approval
Governor Pineda expressed her gratitude for the approval of the Pampanga Peace Alliance Framework and the unwavering support from various government agencies. She stressed that collective action is absolutely essential to ensure a safe and stable community for every Kapampangan resident. The Provincial Capitol collaborated closely with key agencies including the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to formalize this SSIPS declaration.
These agencies have pledged to enhance their close coordination to protect communities from any potential threats, reinforcing a unified front in safeguarding provincial security.
Addressing Broader Crisis Beyond Security Concerns
Pineda, who also serves as chair of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and the Provincial Anti Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), provided a nuanced perspective on the current crisis. She explained that the situation extends far beyond mere security issues.
"The crisis today is not just about rising fuel prices. It also involves jobs and the cost of food. We are all involved. When poverty becomes a problem, peace is also affected, which is why we need to have a Plan B," Pineda stated.
With the continuous increase in petroleum product prices, Kapampangans are experiencing the domino effect on their livelihoods. As family expenses rise and job opportunities shrink, communities become increasingly vulnerable to a range of social problems, the governor highlighted.
Key Components of the Resolution and Attendees
The resolution, signed by provincial government, police, and military officials, emphasizes several critical components:
- Transparency and accountability in all operations.
- Stronger inter-agency cooperation to streamline efforts.
- Active participation of local government units, peace and order councils, and civil society organizations to maintain order and promote inclusive development.
Joining Governor Pineda at the meeting were Vice Governor and PPOC-PADAC Vice Chairman Dennis 'Delta' Pineda; Second District Board Member and Peace and Order Committee Chairperson Claire Lim; First District Board Members Cherry Manalo and Christian Halili; Executive Assistant Angelina Blanco; mayors; and representatives from various agencies and offices.
This collaborative effort marks a proactive step towards addressing both immediate security concerns and underlying economic factors that impact peace and stability in Pampanga.
