NORTHERN SAMAR, Philippines — Lapinig, Northern Samar’s boundary municipality with Eastern Samar and home to 15 barangays, was formally declared under the Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) on July 28, 2026, marking another significant milestone in the province’s sustained pursuit of lasting peace, security, and development.

Once known as an insurgency hotspot, Northern Samar has made significant strides in restoring peace and stability with Lapinig’s declaration, the third municipality in the Second Congressional District to attain the status, joining Laoang and San Roque.

At present, 17 of the province’s 24 municipalities have now achieved SIPSC status, leaving seven municipalities continuing their efforts toward the same milestone.

The declaration was marked by the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding and the Pledge of Commitment, reaffirming the collective resolve of national and local government agencies, security forces, and community leaders to uphold peace and strengthen public safety.

A landmark in Northern Samar’s peace and development journey, the event was graced by Governor Harris Christopher M. Ongchuan; Lapinig Mayor Romualdo A. Menzon Jr., along with other LGU officials and department heads; Rev. Fr. Cleofas Añonuevo, Priest of St. Bonaventure Parish; Mapanas Mayor Ronn Michael L. Tejano; Jipapad Mayor Benjamin E. Ver; Major General Peter B. Burgonio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army; 803rd Infantry Brigade Commander BGEN Carmelito T. Pangatungan; 80th IB Commander LTCol Tim C. Clavel; NSPPO Provincial Director PCOL George B. Buyacao Jr.; BFP OIC Provincial Fire Marshal FSINSP Darwin D. Orsolino; DILG Provincial Dir. Geraldine C. Maquelabit; MLGOO Romie B. Horca, and other stakeholders, whose presence has deepened the province’s shared commitment to sustaining peace, strengthening local governance, and fostering closer collaboration among government institutions and communities.